Kaya FC ramps up roster

Philippines Football League champion Kaya FC-Iloilo picked up two more players to beef up their roster for the Copa Paulino Alcantara.

Midfielder Justin Baas and goalkeeper Henri Bandeken of Cameroon were announced as the latest addition to the squad through the club's social media post yesterday. 

Baas, the 23-year-old Filipino-Dutch footballer will be a massive asset for Kaya due to his stints in foreign clubs like Ratchaburi FC in Thailand.

The Azkals footballer last played as a defender for Melaka United F.C. in the Malaysia Super League where he scored two goals and one assist in 14 appearances. 

Baas also played in the AFC Champions League in 2021 with United City FC where the team missed the knockout stages with a 1-1-4 win-draw-loss card. 

"The 23-year-old player brings his Azkals and Champions League experience to Kaya! Although he built a reputation in defense in recent years, Justin is returning to his natural position in midfield," the club said.

Kaya is slated to play in the AFC Champions League this season with the group stage draw happening on 24 August.

Bandeken, 39, has been in the Philippines since 2015, playing for clubs such as Stallion Laguna FC, Green Archers United, Mendiola FC 1991 and Maharlika Manila FC.

"Since his Philippine football debut in 2015, the Cameroonian keeper has developed a reputation in the country as one of the most talented and imposing figures between the sticks. He joins Kaya eager to earn his right to showcase his skills on Asia's biggest stage," the club said.

The club is set to introduce five more players throughout the week as Kaya is set to make its start in this year's Copa Paulino Alcantara.

Kaya is set to play against Loyola FC on 12 August at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.