Quick Read
- Cebu FC lost 0–4 to Buriram United in the AFF Shopee Cup on February 4.
- The defeat marked Cebu FC’s exit from the tournament, remaining winless after five Group A matches.
- Buriram United, already qualified, secured their semifinal spot with the victory.
- Cebu FC now shifts its focus entirely to the Philippines Football League (PFL).
- The Gentle Giants are currently third in the PFL standings with 22 points.
CEBU CITY (Azat TV) – Cebu Football Club (Cebu FC) has concluded its journey in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Shopee Cup, bowing out of the tournament after a decisive 0–4 loss to Buriram United last Wednesday, February 4, at Thailand’s Chang Arena. The defeat brings an end to the Gentle Giants’ winless campaign in the regional competition, prompting an immediate and complete shift in focus to their ongoing Philippines Football League (PFL) season.
The match against Thai League 1 champions Buriram United saw Cebu FC struggle to contain their opponents, who were already assured of a semifinal spot. Buriram United dominated from the outset, establishing a commanding 4–0 lead by halftime. Goals from Sandy Walsh, Goran Čaušić, Kingsley Schindler, Phitiwat Sookjitthammakul, debutant Nathakorn Rattanasuwan, and Suphanat Mueanta collectively secured Buriram’s victory and their confirmed place in the home-and-away semifinals scheduled for May, as reported by Cebu Daily News.
Cebu FC’s Shopee Cup Campaign Concludes
Cebu FC’s participation in the AFF Shopee Cup was marked by a challenging run, as the team finished their Group A matches without a single victory. Across five games, the Gentle Giants managed only one draw, failing to advance further in the prestigious regional tournament. This early exit allows the club to consolidate its resources and energy entirely on domestic competitions, a crucial pivot for their season objectives.
Focus Shifts to Philippines Football League
With their Shopee Cup commitments now behind them, Cebu FC is set to intensify its efforts in the Philippines Football League. The Gentle Giants currently hold a strong position in the PFL standings, sitting third with 22 points. Their record includes seven wins, two losses, and one draw. They trail closely behind Kaya FC Iloilo, which has 24 points, and the league leaders, One Taguig FC, who boast eight wins and only one loss.
Upcoming PFL Matches for the Gentle Giants
The transition back to domestic league play will see Cebu FC kick off a series of vital home matches. Their next PFL fixture is scheduled for February 11, when they will face the Philippine Army at the Dynamic Herb Borromeo Sports Complex. This will be followed by another crucial matchup on February 15 against Valenzuela PB-Mendiola. These home games represent a significant opportunity for Cebu FC to climb the league table and solidify their standing as top contenders for the PFL title.
The club’s swift reorientation towards the PFL campaign underscores the strategic importance of domestic success, allowing them to channel all focus and resources into a league where they have demonstrated considerable strength and potential for championship contention.