MANILA – Due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has decided to postpone all AFC Cup 2020 matches until further notice.
Among the matches affected by the indefinite postponement were the group stage games of the Philippines representatives Ceres-Negros FC and Kaya Futbol Club-Iloilo.
“The AFC had earlier postponed all AFC Cup West Zone Group Stage matches on March 12, 2020 and the latest decision applies to all matches in March and April across the five AFC zones,” it said.
“In the meantime, the AFC will closely monitor the situation before deciding when to recommence the 2020 AFC Cup season,” the AFC added.
“The decision, which was also made in conjunction with the competing clubs and their respective member associations, is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all participating players and teams, match officials and spectators as well as designed to protect the integrity of the competition,” it further said.
Ceres-Negros is currently on top of Group G with seven points, on two victories and a draw, while Kaya-Iloilo was at second place in Group H with five points on one win and two draws.
Ceres-Negros’ supposed next match was against Bali United of Indonesia on the second week of April at the latter’s home turf, while Kaya-Iloilo was supposed to play host to PSM Makassar of Indonesia at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium./PN
