Davao Aguilas FC-UMAK inched closer to the final after a 1-0 win over Cebu FC in the first leg of the 2023 Copa Paulino Alcantara semifinal at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium Saturday evening.

Troy Limbo scored the lone goal of the game in the 37th minute, positioning Davao in its return to the championship round of the tournament since 2018.

In the match prior, Kaya FC – Iloilo took a 2-1 win in their first-leg match against Stallion Laguna FC.

Arnel Armita and Justin Baas led the scoring for the Lions after making goals in the 58th and 62nd minutes respectively.

Yuta Nomura pulled one back for the Stallions after a goal in the 69th minute but failed to capitalize on it.

The second leg will begin on 3 November.