Kaya FC-Iloilo Drawn into Group H in the 2025/26 AFC Champions League Two A familiar path, a tougher climb, and the flag on their backs as a new campaign begins.

The official draw for the AFC Champions League Two was held last week in Kuala Lumpur, placing Kaya FC-Iloilo in Group H alongside three formidable opponents: FC Pohang Steelers (South Korea), BG Pathum United FC (Thailand), and Tampines Rovers FC (Singapore).

This will be Kaya’s second appearance in the tournament, following last season’s historic campaign. In 2024, the club earned their first-ever Champions League points with a home draw against quarterfinalists Sanfrecce Hiroshima (Japan) and a dramatic away victory over Eastern FC (Hong Kong).

Familiar Foes Return

The group stage brings two reunions with opponents Kaya have crossed paths with before. They last faced Tampines Rovers in the 2020 AFC Cup, battling to a 0–0 draw in the opening leg before the return fixture was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, years later, both sides have the chance to settle unfinished business on the continental stage.

Another familiar name awaits in BG Pathum United, the team that hosted Kaya’s inaugural AFC Champions League campaign in 2021. While points proved elusive in that first encounter, this rematch offers a chance to measure progress against a side firmly established among Thailand’s elite.

A New Test in Pohang

No challenge in Group H looms larger than Pohang Steelers, a K League 1 giant and serial winner on the Asian stage. With five K League 1 titles and three AFC Champions League crowns to their name, the Steelers bring both impressive pedigree and quality to the group. Kaya have yet to claim points against a South Korean opponent in continental competition—a hurdle the club will be determined to clear this time around.

“Home” Away From Home

While the draw signals another exciting chapter for Kaya, it also brings logistical challenges. The Iloilo Sports Complex does not yet meet AFC stadium requirements—and neither do Panaad Stadium or Rizal Memorial Stadium. For now, that means the club cannot bring continental football to Philippine football fans in Visayas, a reality that remains a key area of focus for the future. Kaya is committed to working closely with the province to make this possible in the years ahead.

For the time being, Kaya’s “home” fixtures will be played at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac. The venue may be different, the distance greater, but the spirit remains unchanged—every match will be played for Iloilo, with the unwavering support of the Kaya faithful as the club’s greatest strength.

The Road Begins

Kaya’s 2025/26 AFC Champions League Two campaign officially kicks off on September 18, when the team faces Tampines Rovers of Singapore at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium.

The path is set, the opponents are known—and once again, Kaya FC-Iloilo is ready to fly the flag for the Philippines on Asia’s grand stage. Stay tuned for ticketing details and broadcast information in the coming weeks.