Kaya FC–Iloilo Hosts ASEAN Champions in Panaad Kaya FC–Iloilo face a stiff test in their first home match in the 2019 AFC Cup

Kaya FC–Iloilo are set to play their first home match of the 2019 AFC Cup on Wednesday, as they host reigning ASEAN zone champions, Home United at 3pm, at the Panaad Stadium.

“The last time Home United were here they beat Ceres [Negros] for the ASEAN championship, so we’re expecting a tough game tomorrow. But we came here prepared for what’s necessary in tomorrow’s game. I’m expecting my players to step up, especially those from Bacolod,” said Kaya head coach Noel Marcaida.

With Panaad Stadium the only AFC approved venue in the Philippines, Iloilo will play in nearby Bacolod, in the backyard of their club rivals from Negros.

“We really wanted to play in front of the Ilonggos in the Iloilo Sports Complex, but then again, we’re not just representing the club, we’re representing Philippine football in general. So we’re calling on not just the Ilonggos but also the football fanatics in Bacolod to support us and show them what Philippine football is about not just on the field, but off it as well,” said Marcaida.

Wednesday’s match will be particularly special for five Kaya players hailing from the region: Arnie Pasinabo, Jayson Panhay, Janrick Soriano, Jalsor Soriano, and Camelo Tacusalme.

“We are really excited for tomorrow’s game. It’s really exciting to be able to play in front of family and close friends,” said Kaya defender Tacusalme. “Our eagerness to win in front of them, and our willingness to win will be the key.”

Currently all four teams in Group H are tied with one point each, making victory all the more important against Home United.

“This is our second game (in Group H) but it seems like we’re just starting in our group, so it’s very important to get maximum points,” said Marcaida. “The camaraderie of the team is our strength. The brotherhood of the Kaya players really give us [good] morale heading into every game.”