Kaya, United City fall in Champions League round 2 matches

Kaya FC’s Kenshiro Daniels pressing the attack (afc.com)

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Philippine representatives Kaya FC-Iloilo and United City FC absorbed crushing defeats during the second round of the 2021 AFC Champions League.

The Iloilo-based football team fell to Vietnamese powerhouse Viettel Football Club, 0-5, while United City lost to Daegu FC of South Korea, 0-7.

Kaya had to endure the quick and aggressive pace Viettel played against them as they looked to score every offensive possession they had and were all over them defensively.

It was a solid defensive effort for Kaya FC after allowing only one goal in the first half but just couldn’t withstand the firepower Viettel had and gave up four more goals before time expired.

Meanwhile, United City saw an inspired football team from South Korea fire from all cylinders and punish them for 90 grueling minutes.

Kaya will still have a chance to bounce back as they are set to face Ulsan FC of South Korea in their group stage match.

The United City booters will also seek to bounce back against the Japanese football team Kawasaki FC.