The resumption of the Philippines Football League (PFL) season on Sunday will feature a faceoff between the club on top of the table against a fellow Visayan side that suddenly emerged as its serious pursuer.
Kaya-Iloilo hosts Dynamic Herb Cebu on Sunday in Iloilo City as the league returns after a long break due to international competitions and reeling from the withdrawal of cash-strapped United City FC.
United City’s pullout due to financial issues relating to an investor that defaulted several months ago allowed Cebu to climb up the ladder, and a repeat over Kaya will allow the team to close in on the standings.
First title
Kaya, eyeing a first-ever league title, is ahead with 30 points while Cebu is six back with two games at hand going into the match at the Iloilo Sports Complex.
The two clubs split their two previous meetings, with Kaya prevailing 3-0 at Rizal Memorial Stadium before Cebu responded by taking a 3-2 victory in Talisay.
Changes will be seen from both sides once they troop to the pitch for the 3 p.m. match.
Kaya lost up-and-coming midfielder Sandro Reyes, defender Carlyle Mitchell, Ryo Fujii and Shirmar Felongco, among others, but added Tamon Horikoshi, former Global striker Milad Behgandom and Dylan Nobiraki.
Cebu added Ivan Ouano to replace striker Arda Cinkir.