"We actually wanted to win, but we have to be happy with the players' fighting spirit even though the result was a draw," Tavares said at a press conference after the match at GBT Stadium.
Tavares assessed that both teams created many chances throughout the match, so a draw reflects the open nature of the match.
Regarding tactical decisions, Tavares explained that the substitution was made after Milos Raickovic committed a dangerous foul near the penalty box at the end of the first half.
He assessed that Milos' physical condition had declined due to the tight match schedule, so he chose to bring in Gustavo Fernandes and push Risto Mitrevski further forward.
"We did this to anticipate the entry of tall players from Persib," he said.
Tavares said the decision was based on an analysis of Persib's previous matches, where they often scored goals through crosses that took advantage of the attackers' superior posture.
In addition, he revealed the reason for placing Toni as a right winger even though the player's original position is a midfielder.
According to him, Toni has the aggressiveness, speed, and technique that suit the team's needs in that sector, even being able to record an assist from his new position.
"He's not originally a right winger, but he finished the game in that position," he said.
Furthermore, he also appreciated the support of Bonek and Bonita supporters, who he felt provided additional energy to the team throughout the match.
He said the atmosphere in the stadium was incredible and helped the players, especially when the team had to play with a number of players out of position due to injuries.
"I can't complain one bit about what happened to the players," said Tavares.
Meanwhile, Persebaya player Toni Firmansyah expressed his appreciation to the supporters who attended the match, even though the result was not what he had hoped for.
“Of course this is not the result we wanted, and in the next match I hope we can get three points,” he said.
