It was an uphill battle from the very start, but Kaya FC-Iloilo showed improved form against the reigning Asian champions. Ulsan Hyundai FC netted three goals in what looked like an easy win on paper, but not so much on the pitch. For the first time in this tournament, Kaya showed real flashes of why they belong on this continental stage.
Ulsan displayed their class early in the match. At the 12 minute mark, Georgian midfielder Vako Qazaishvilli shook off Audie Menzi down the left endline and set up forward Oh Se-hun for the score. They had to wait until the 40th minute to get on the board again, when Marwin Angeles got booked for a foul just outside the box. The ensuing free kick found its way to Se-hun once more for a rather fortuitous conversion from close range.
The champs were patient with their attacks throughout the match, but were for the most part contained by the sea of yellow shirts. Kaya’s defense was effective in stymying Ulsan’s build up—repeatedly forcing their runners offside, pressing at the right times, and threatening on counters.
The South Korean side struck for a final time just three minutes into the second half. Even though Kaya looked keen to keep up the pressure, a deflected pass fell nicely for a streaking Vako who slotted it home from the six yard box.
Despite the scoreline, Kaya could take plenty of positives from their performance. The defense they displayed was very disciplined, with the players moving on a string the whole match. Ulsan were able to capitalize on the few mistakes made, but otherwise, Iloilo showed enough to frustrate the defending champions.
On offense, Kenshiro Daniels got several good looks on goal. One such play happened in the 54th minute. Simone Rota split the press with a pass to Angeles, who carried the ball to the opposition half before finding Jovin Bedic. The captain then played in a well-timed through ball between the defenders, leaving Kenshiro one-on-one with the keeper. The shot was ultmiately saved, but it was a fantastic chance that bodes well for their remaining matches on the ACL slate.
Coach Graham Harvey used three of his five available substitutions; sending in Arnel Amita for Marwin Angeles in the 62nd, Fitch Arboleda for Marco Casambre in the 70th, and Jarvey Gayoso for Jovin Bedic in the 83rd.
Encouraging signs from Kaya, as the club finally seems to be ramping into form. The players all displayed poise and confidence, as they worked tirelessly without the ball and were decisive with it. All things considered, it was a good showing against the very best in Asia. They’ll get their chance for revenge soon enough, as the two clubs are scheduled to play again on Monday, July 5th.
