Top-seed Kaya FC-Iloilo faces three-time champions De La Salle University in the second semi-final of the PFF Women’s League 2023 sponsored by Coca-Cola Philippines on Saturday, 6:00 PM at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
The semi-final clash will determine which team will face Manila Digger FC, who won over Far Eastern University, 4-3 in the penalty shootout, last week after both teams failed to break the deadlock after 120 minutes.
Kaya found themselves at the top of the standings at the end of the elimination round with 22 points with seven wins, one draw, and one loss, but are ahead over Far Eastern University and Manila Digger FC due to their superior goal differential of +36.
Led by national team players Hali Long, Inna Palacios, and Camille Rodriguez, Kaya ran rampant in the elimination stage, scoring 42 goals in the process with Shelah Cadag scoring 10 goals.
“As we progressed, the team developed stamina, good chemistry, and we were able to improve our play,” said Kaya head coach Let Dimzon. “We will execute and clean up our play, stay focused on the task, and put up a good fight against DLSU. The team is ready and will deliver quality football action.”
However, De La Salle University will not waver in their quest for a fourth straight league title. Posting a record of six wins, one draw, and two losses in the elimination stage, La Salle will bank on its forward pair of Angelica Teves and Alisha Del Campo, who have amassed a combined total of 14 goals this season.
“I expect the girls to perform to their abilities,” said La Salle’s long-time head coach Hans Peter Smit. “They’re hyped up to play since the lockdown took away a few years of play from them. I’m just preparing them mentally and keeping them physically fit.”
Both teams met in the elimination stage last 29 July 2023 with Kaya coming away with a 2-1 win over La Salle.
