Sydney FC is set to face FC Kaya Iloilo in their AFC Champions League 2 match on Thursday night in Manila.
Ahead of what is going to be a tough match in some testing humid conditions, Head Coach Ufuk Talay and defender Jordan Courtney-Perkins reinforced that their side won’t waver from their dynamic and positive play style.
“This is my first trip to the Philippines, and I’m very excited to be here. The warm welcome has been fantastic, and we’re looking forward to the game against Kaya.
“We want to continue that positive momentum and ensure the players stay focused on the task at hand. Our goal is to return to Sydney with three points,” he said.
Courtney-Perkins echoed his coach’s excitement, stating, “I’m very eager to get started. It’s been a long pre-season, and to finally be back in competitive matches is thrilling.
“Our opening game in the Asian Champions League was a great start, and we want to build on that against Kaya here in Manila.”
The Sky Blues have met FC Kaya once prior on home soil but in their own backyard, Ufuk Tlaay is expecting the Lions to put up a stern test.
“They’ve proven themselves in their local competition, and despite their recent loss, they will be eager to perform well at home.
“We know it will be a challenge, but we must focus on our own game and how we want to play,” he continued.
“I expect an entertaining and high-intensity game. Playing on synthetic turf is an adjustment for us, but we have confidence in our squad and the quality we can bring to the pitch.”
Despite the artificial surface, the number four believes his side are ready for the task at hand.
“Kaya is a good side, and we’ve analysed their play, however, our main priority is to perform at our best.
“If we can do that, we should achieve the result we want.”
Catch all the action live on 10Play, with the match kicking off at 8pm Australian time.
Match Details
FC Kaya Iloilo v Sydney FC
AFC Champions League 2 Matchday Two
Rizal Memorial Stadium, Manila, Philippines
Thursday 3rd October, 2024
Kick Off: 8pm AEST (6:00pm Local)
Broadcast Live: 10Play
