Stallion, United City settle for draw to clinch Copa Paulino Alcantara semis berths

Originally published by CNN Philippines

Stallion Laguna FC and United City FC matched each other’s brilliance on the pitch to settle for a goalless draw in the final elimination round game of the Copa Paulino Alcantara 2022 on Thursday at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.

Both squads also clinched the last two semifinals berths with United City nabbing the third seed and Stallion Laguna, the fourth seed.

In the semifinals, United City will face second seed Dynamic Herb Cebu FC while Stallion Laguna will battle top seed and defending Copa Paulino Alcantara champion Kaya FC-Iloilo.

Throughout the game, two-time AFC Champions League campaigner United City dominated the hold of the ball, though Stallion got more open looks for the goal.

The two teams failed to score with United City’s Alan Robertson missing his close goal attempt, while Stallion’s Abou Sy and Charles Pickering failing on the most crucial tries for the Ernie Nierras-coached squad.

The Jason Withe-mentored United City finished eliminations campaign with two wins and four losses for a total of 10 points.

Meanwhile, the Stallions recorded four draws and two defeats for a total of four points. Although they finished fifth in the league table, the squad was rewarded with the last semifinals berth as fourth placer Azkals Development Team is busy representing the country at the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam.

Stallion also edged Maharlika Manila FC, which also finished with four points in the tournament, in goal difference to nab the semifinals trip.

The Copa Paulino Alcantara 2022 semifinals will be played on Monday.