SEAToday.com, Jakarta - Persebaya Surabaya's coach, Paul Munster, has yet to field veteran player Oktavianus Fernando in the 2024/25 BRI Liga 1 competition. However, his role within the team remains crucial. As a senior player, Fernando maintains team morale and cohesion, saying, "As a senior player, I will continue to provide support and keep the team's atmosphere positive," as cited by LigaIndonesiabaru.

Despite not playing in the senior competition, Fernando embraced his role as a 'joker.' On September 29th, he played for Persebaya U20 in the EPA Liga 1 U20, contributing to their 5-0 win over Madura United U20. The new joker regulation allows older players, over 20 years of age, to participate in the youth competition, providing valuable playing time.

Alongside Fernando, several other senior players, including Alfan Suaib and Rizky Dwi, also joined the U20 squad. These players benefited from the match experience, helping them maintain their physical condition despite limited playing time in BRI Liga 1.

For Fernando, playing in the youth competition was a new experience. "It was recovery training for me since I didn’t play against Dewa United on September 27," he explained. The match provided him an opportunity to keep up his touch and match fitness, even against younger opponents.

As the older brother of Indonesian national team player Marselino Ferdinan, Fernando didn’t hold back in the match. "I always give my best, even in these matches," showing his commitment to staying sharp and ready for future opportunities.

Writer: Fariz Ahmad Luthfi