#CPA2022: Composed UCFC dismantles youthful ADT

Photo credits: Philippines Football League

United City FC gets back in the winning column in the 2022 Copa Paulino Alcantara as they dispatched the Azkals Development Team (ADT), 4-0 in their group stage encounter last Thursday at the PFF National Training Center. The defending PFL champions struck twice on both halves to score an impressive win over the homegrown-laden ADT side while trying to gear up for their upcoming AFC Champions League campaign. UCFC started the match on a strong note, controlling possession and imposing their domination on the midfield. Eventually, they found the early breakthrough goal in the 13th minute as Ricardo Sendra was left unmarked to tap in a simple finish off a Kenshiro Daniels corner.

Amirbek Juraboev doubled the cushion nine minutes later as he unleashed a powerful strike from 30 yards out, leaving ADT goalkeeper Kyle Bayabos with no chance. ADT had good chances of their own but was unable to convert, with Martini Rey launching an ambitious lob shot from just inside the halfway line that was easily saved by UCFC goalkeeper Anthony Pinthus in the 29th minute, and Jermi Darapan's attempt off a quick counter-attack blocked by Simen Lyngbo in the 37th minute. In the second half, UCFC continued their dominance despite ADT's persistent attempts to press and make them feel uncomfortable in possession.

Substitute Ivan Ouano put UCFC three goals to the good in the 72nd minute as he was first to the rebound as Mark Hartmann's direct free kick was too powerful for Bayabos to handle, causing the ball to spill off the youthful goalkeeper's hands. Daniels put on the finishing touch on UCFC's glittering performance as he produced a fine finish from Curt Dizon's layoff pass in the 90th minute. With the win, UCFC propels itself to the top of the group stage table with 7 points from 3 matches while ADT remains in the middle of the pack with 3 points from their first two assignments.