A NEW-LOOK Cebu FC is playing its first home match on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023, against group leader University of the Philippines (UP) in Group B of the 2023 Copa Paulino Alcantara at the Dynamic Herb Sports Stadium in Talisay City, Cebu.
With the departure of talented Turkish midfielder Mert Altinöz, the club brought back prolific Turkish striker Arda Çinkir in a transfer from TFF Third League club Darica Gençlerbirliği. Cebu also re-acquired the services of Japanese defender Ren Okuda and up-and-coming center back Jaime Rosquillo.
Cebu FC also signed some new international players to replace Leaford Allen and Ibrahim Moro. Cebu FC brought in Turkish center back Göktug Demiroglu, Ryo Togashi and Ken Murayama.
Cebu FC will be playing its first match in the Copa.
Cebu FC finished the 2023 Philippines Football League in second place behind league champion Kaya FC-Iloilo.
In last year’s Copa, Cebu FC finished fourth.
UP is currently at the top of Group B after winning its first two matches. UP totally outclassed Manila Digger FC, 4-1, last July 22 and edged out Pilipinas Dragons, 2-1, on Aug. 9.
UP leads Group B with six points, followed by Pilipinas Dragons with three points. Maharlika Manila FC is third with a point, while Manila Digger FC is fourth also with a point but behind on goal difference.
The Cebu FC and UP match starts at 3 p.m. / EKA