Kaya FC–Iloilo and Air Force Tangle in Philippine Club Football’s Return to Live Television The PPL's opening night will see the return of live Philippine club football on free television.

Philippine Air Force FC vs Kaya FC–Iloilo
Saturday, April 27, 2019 | 7:15pm
Rizal Memorial Stadium

The Philippine Premier League officially kicks off on Saturday, ushering in domestic club football’s return to live television through 5Plus (formerly Aksyon TV). Opening day will see Green Archers United and Mendiola 1991 tussle at 4pm, with Kaya FC–Iloilo and Philippine Air Force tangling in the televised matchup at 7pm. Both matches will be held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, with free entrance to all.

“It’s always important to set the right tone in the first game,” said Kaya head coach Noel Marcaida. “It’s also important that we manage our recovery, as we have an AFC Cup game on the 30th. We will definitely be giving chances to those who have yet to get enough minutes.”

While the two clubs have a storied past together, the pair have not faced each other since Air Force dropped out of the top flight of Philippine football in 2013. Despite their five-year absence from the sport’s highest level, the Armed Forces side isn’t daunted by the challenge of facing a current AFC Cup competitor.

“Air Force will come strong, with a ‘Never say die’ attitude,” said Leo Jaena.

To which club legend and current team captain, Yanti Barsales, added, “We will give 150% in the game.”

For young Kaya player, Arnel Amita, Saturday’s occasion will be an opportunity to mix it up with some of his childhood idols.

“We’re not taking Air Force lightly,” said Amita in Filipino. “They used to be the best team. Their players are former national team players. They were our idols, now we will get to play against them. We will give 100%.”

Saturday’s feature match will be aired live on 5Plus and on ESPN5’s online platforms. Broadcast begins at 7pm, with kickoff of the match slated at 7:15pm.