Wasit Jepang Pimpin BRI Liga 1, Pemain Asing Persija: Tidak Ada Lagi Guling-gulingan di Lapangan
BRI Liga 1, the top-tier professional football league in Indonesia, has recently appointed Japanese referees to officiate its matches. This decision has been met with mixed reactions from players, coaches, and fans alike. However, one thing is for certain – the presence of these foreign officials has led to a significant decrease in theatrics and unsportsmanlike behavior on the field.
One team that has particularly benefited from this change is Persija Jakarta, one of the most successful and popular clubs in Indonesian football. Known for their passionate fanbase and talented players, Persija has often been criticized for their players’ tendency to engage in time-wasting tactics and exaggerated falls to gain an advantage.
However, with Japanese referees now in charge, the players have been forced to clean up their act. One of Persija’s foreign players, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “The Japanese referees are very strict and don’t tolerate any kind of simulation or unsportsmanlike behavior. We have quickly learned that we need to play fair and focus on our skills rather than trying to deceive the officials.”
The impact of this change was evident in Persija’s recent match against a rival team. In the past, matches between these two teams were often marred by players diving and rolling on the ground, trying to fool the referees into awarding them free kicks or penalties. However, with the Japanese referees in charge, the game was played with a renewed sense of sportsmanship and fair play. The players focused on their skills, and the match was intense but devoid of any theatrics.
The appointment of Japanese referees is part of the league’s efforts to improve the overall quality of officiating and promote fair play in Indonesian football. The decision was made after observing the success of Japanese referees in other leagues around the world, including their involvement in major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup.
The impact of these foreign officials goes beyond just the behavior of the players. Coaches and team officials have also had to adapt their strategies and tactics to align with the stricter enforcement of the rules. This has led to a more disciplined and organized style of play, resulting in more exciting and competitive matches for the fans.
It is important to note that the appointment of Japanese referees is not a reflection of the capabilities of Indonesian referees. It is rather a step towards improving the overall quality of officiating in the league. This move serves as an opportunity for Indonesian referees to learn from their Japanese counterparts and enhance their skills through exposure to international standards.
As the BRI Liga 1 continues to progress and evolve, the presence of Japanese referees will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of Indonesian football. The players, coaches, and fans have all embraced this change, as it has led to a more fair and competitive league. With the eradication of theatrics and unsportsmanlike behavior, the focus is now firmly on the skills, teamwork, and passion that make football such a beloved sport.