CEBU FC fell short in the first leg of the qualifying round playoff match between Kasuka FC in the Asean Club Championship Shopee Cup after a 2-1 loss last Friday night, Aug. 8, 2025, at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.
Newly signed striker Jacob Njoku was a huge boost offensively for the home team as he scored a brace to win it for the back-to-back Brunei Super League champions Kasuka FC.
Njoku displayed his quickness and speed and opened up with a 17th minute goal in the middle coming from a low cross pass by former Loyola FC player Daisuke Kobayashi.
However, Cebu FC fought back and equalized in the 24th minute from a goal by Rico Andes. The former Philippines Under-22 national team player turned and struck the goal coming off a rebound from a Kasuka FC defender.
Njoko quickly equalized seven minutes later from a counter attack. He beat two Cebu FC defender and goalkeeper Jessie Semblante with a quick burst of speed for his second goal.
Cebu FC coach Glen Ramos made some strategic substitutions in the second half that almost paid off.
Australian striker Esrom Paulos almost equalized with a free kick just outside the box that hit the crossbar in the 70th minute. Substitute winger JB Borlongan also had two close chances to equalize late in the match, while center back Noah Leddel had an opportunity down the middle, which was deflected by veteran Brunei goalkeeper Wardun Leddel.
Cebu FC had most of the match’s possessions at 54 percent and made more passes and shot attempts. However, the Gentle Giants just couldn’t hit their target.
Cebu FC still has a chance to advance to the group stage in the second leg of the qualifying round playoff against Kasuka FC, this time at home, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila on Aug. 15, 2025. / EKA