Ahead of Fighting Dewa United, PSM Coach Talks About Racism in Indonesian Football

– PSM Makassar will face Dewa United in the continuation match of the highest level of football competition, League 1 season 2022/2023, at the BJ Habibie Stadium, Parepare City, South Sulawesi, on Saturday (8/7/2023).

In a press conference held on Friday afternoon (7/7/2023) at the BJ Habibie Stadium, PSM Makassar coach Bernardo Tavares brought up the issue of racism that affected three of his players, Erwin Gutawa, Yance Sayuri and Yuran Fernandes. The three of them became victims of racist attacks on social media after the match against Persija Jakarta last Monday (3/7/2023).

In that match, PSM Makassar, who is also the defending champion, drew 1-1 against Persija Jakarta. As a follow-up to the racism incident, the three players have taken legal steps to resolve the case.

Bernardo stated that in football, wins and losses are commonplace. However, the problem of racism is still not properly resolved.

“In football, we can win, lose or draw. But what shouldn’t be is racism. So, please respect and respect the PSM Makassar players,” said the coach who came from Portugal.

According to him, football should be interesting entertainment for all people if all parties respect each other.

“Football should be enjoyed by everyone, not a battlefield inside or outside the field. We must respect each other. Regarding racism, we must respect each other. Without mutual respect, this sport loses its meaning because sport is based on mutual respect. ,” he added.

The match against Dewa United is PSM Makassar’s second match in the 2023/2024 League 1. PSM Makassar will host the Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium on Saturday (8/7/2023).

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