MANILA – Ceres Negros FC’s unblemished slate in the 2018 AFC Cup had been tainted following a 0-2 defeat to Home United of Singapore at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.
However, even with the defeat on Wednesday night, the Busmen along with Home United secured a spot in the zonal semifinals round after finishing their Group F matches with 13 points apiece.
Ceres Negros’ defeat came as a shocker. They were the aggressor at the start and dominated most of the possession. Omid Nazari made the first attempt for the Negrense with a strike in the fifth minute but was defended.
Ceres Negros continued with their attempts in the first half from Bienvenido Marañon and Stephan Schrock but their hits did not go in. Home United nearly scored before the half from Hafiz Nor but he misfired.
Ceres Negros continued with their aggressiveness in the second half with attempts from Marañon and Schrock but their just hit the crossbar.
The Negrenses nearly scored anew in the 66th minute but Marañon misfired a cross from Jeffrey Christaens.
Home United finally gained its first goal when Izzdin Shafiq’s free kick found its way to the back of the net in the 80th minute. Ceres Negros had an opportunity to tie but Martin Steuble’s shot was saved.
Home United sealed the victory late in injury time when Song Ui-Yong converted a penalty from a foul committed by Ceres Negros from inside the box.
Ceres Negros will face Group G winners Yangon United of Myanmar in the two-leg Zonal Semifinals on May 9 at Panaad Stadium and May 16 at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon./PN
