Kaya FC-Iloilo refuses to let its blazing start in the PFF Women’s League breed complacency as it keeps its focus on a bigger challenge waiting on the international stage.

Despite opening the season with three straight victories, Kaya midfielder Cam Rodriguez said the club remains locked in on improving, knowing the Women’s League serves as a crucial tune-up for the preliminary stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League slated from 17 to 23 August in Kyrgyzstan.

Rodriguez stressed that Kaya cannot afford to underestimate any opponent even if it is the lone club side competing against collegiate and institutional teams in the domestic league.

“It’s very important to start strong. We need the games and the experience, and we’re still facing quality teams and players. FEU (Far Eastern University), the defending champion, La Salle, the uniformed team and UP (University of the Philippines) all provide good competition,” Rodriguez told DAILY TRIBUNE.

“Even if we’re the only club team, it’s important to show that women’s club football is still very much alive in the Philippines. With the AFC Women’s Champions League coming up next month, the timing is perfect for us.”

Kaya sits atop the league table with a spotless 3-0 record and is on track to secure one of the two berths in the championship match.

Leading the club’s offensive charge are Jay Tolentino and Inday Tolentin, who have combined for eight goals, scoring four apiece through three matches.

Still, Rodriguez said the team’s attention is fixed on raising its level rather than celebrating its early success.

“Kaya always aims to set the standard, and that’s what motivates us every time we step onto the pitch. We play for the badge, but we also want to help lead the growth of women’s football in the country,” she said.

Rodriguez believes there are still areas the squad must sharpen before facing Asia’s top clubs, particularly on the defensive end

“Our biggest focus is improving our defense. We haven’t kept a clean sheet in our first three matches, so that’s something we need to address,” Rodriguez said.

“We also need to improve our fitness because our international opponents will be physically strong and high quality. We have to keep pushing ourselves.”