Persik Kediri — Dewa United : Match Preview and Prediction for August 22,2025

Defensive Vulnerabilities

Persik Kediri approaches this fixture with evident defensive issues. The team consistently concedes goals at critical junctures of the game. This isn’t a random occurrence but a clear, recurring pattern that has emerged.

Coach’s Acknowledgment and Concentration Lapses

Coach Ong Kim Swee himself has highlighted this vulnerability. In their match against Bali United (1-1), his players conceded in the 90+7th minute. In the subsequent game with Madura United (1-2), a goal found their net as early as the third minute. Problems with concentration at both the start and end of matches appear to be a persistent issue for the squad.

Offensive Prowess and Home Form

Despite their defensive woes, Persik possesses significant attacking potential, scoring in every match of the new season. Their home game statistics also reveal a telling trend: in 5 out of their last 6 home encounters, at least 3 goals were scored. While this particular match is re-scheduled, the offensive trend for their nominally home fixtures is unmistakably clear.

A Paradoxical Start to the Season

Dewa United presents itself as a paradoxical team. Despite being stacked with star players, their results at the start of the season are disheartening. Two losses in two rounds, with a cumulative score of 1-5, indicate glaring defensive problems with five goals conceded.

Aggressive Tactics and Defensive Gaps

Coach Jan Olde Riekerink adheres to an ultra-attacking style of play. This tactical approach inevitably leads to massive defensive vulnerabilities. The new central defensive pairing of Nick Kuipers and Cassio Scheid has not yet found cohesion, exacerbating the situation. Goalkeeper Sonny Stevens has already had to retrieve the ball from his net five times.

Potent Attack and Predicted Open Play

However, Dewa United possesses a roster of very high-quality offensive players. Alex Martins, Egy Maulana Vikri, and Rafael Struick are footballers capable of breaking down any defense. Against a Persik defense known for lapses in concentration, they will have ample opportunities to demonstrate their prowess. Their inherent playing style simply does not lend itself to a closed, defensive game.