In a thrilling showdown last Saturday, Kaya-Iloilo secured its inaugural PFF Women’s League sponsored by Coca-Cola Philippines title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Manila Digger in the final.
Sheen Nicole Ramores emerged as the hero, finding the net in the 86th minute with a precise low strike after being left unmarked in the box.
The Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila witnessed history as Kaya claimed their first PFFWL crown in front of a passionate crowd.
Coach Let Dimzon expressed her joy, stating, “I’m happy for Kaya, it’s another historic achievement for the club. We’re the first club to win the PFF Women’s League, and it is a huge honor for us to get this title.”
Dimzon also emphasized the importance of continued investment in women’s football.
Manila Digger faced adversity early on when Hannah Pachejo received a second yellow card in the 26th minute, reducing them to 10 players.
Kaya had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 54th minute, but Camille Rodriguez’s penalty kick was denied by Digger’s goalkeeper, Ayishatu Simpson.
The breakthrough eventually came when Sara Castañeda set up Ramores, who made no mistake in securing the historic victory.
The battle for third place unfolded earlier in the day, with Far Eastern University claiming a 2-1 win over De La Salle University.
Dionesa Tolentin scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute after Angelica Teves had canceled out Carmela Altiche’s opener.
Shelah Cadag of Kaya, who netted an impressive 12 goals throughout the season, was honored as the Tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
Cadag expressed gratitude, stating, “All our hard work and sacrifice paid off with this win. We did our best, and we thank everyone who supported us. It was a good game because we fought hard until the end.”
Individual accolades were also handed out, with Simpson of Manila Digger claiming the league’s best goalkeeper award.
Far Eastern University’s Jonela Albiño was recognized as the league’s best defender, while Kaya’s Charisa Lemoran was named the Best Midfielder.
The league’s top scorers were Angelica Teves and Tuloy’s Isabella Bandoja, who jointly secured the honor with 19 goals each for the season.
