Singapore’s Tampines Rovers opened their AFC Champions League 2 group campaign in style, defeating Kaya FC–Iloilo 3-0 on a heavy pitch that tested both sides’ composure. Goals from Trent Buhagiar (2) and Ken Mojavean ensured a commanding win for the Stags in front of a lively home crowd.

The first half ended goalless, with both teams struggling to adjust to the soggy surface. Kaya worked hard to contain Tampines, while the visitors dominated possession but could not find a breakthrough.

The second half told a different story. Within minutes of the restart, Buhagiar broke the deadlock with a thumping finish after fine play down the right. He then turned provider, beating his marker to square for Mojavean, who made it 2-0.

With Kaya chasing the game, Buhagiar struck again late on, sealing a brace and his Man of the Match award. The result leaves Tampines well-placed in the group, while Kaya will need a quick response before facing South Korea’s Pohang Steelers.

During the post-match press conference, Tampines Rovers coach Noh Rahman praised his side’s ability to adapt: “It was a tough match. We started a little bit slow and cautious, probably because of the pitch condition. But as the game grew along, we got into the rhythm and got the result.

“In the first half we created chances but didn’t convert. At halftime, we told the boys to stay calm, it was only a matter of time. In the second half we took our chances, and that was the key.”

On the team’s preparation: “It was a difficult away trip. We didn’t have the opportunity to train on this pitch, and the surface outside was very heavy. But credit to the boys because they stuck to the plan, played our football, and got the job done.”

Trent Buhagiar, who scored twice, reflected on his Man of the Match display: “As coach said, we started a bit slow, but as the game went on we grew into it and came away with the three points. It was tough on a heavy track, but the most important thing was to get the win, and that’s what we did.

Playing in the AFC Champions League 2 is definitely a step up from the Singapore Premier League. It’s a chance to test ourselves against quality opponents and show Asia what Tampines can do. This is a great start, and we want to build from here.”

Head coach Yu Hoshide of Kaya FC–Iloilo admitted it was a tough night for his side: “In the first half it was half and half. But in the second half, especially at the beginning, we conceded two goals. That really killed the game for us.

Conditions were difficult, but I don’t want to use that as an excuse. Both teams played under the same situation. We struggled with control and passing, and our players couldn’t really settle into the game.”

Looking ahead to their next match against Pohang Steelers, Hoshide added: “Pohang are very strong, so we must improve defensively and also attack better. The positive is that we are playing at this level — game by game, we hope to get stronger.”

The Stags take an early advantage in Group Stage play, while Kaya face an uphill battle to bounce back.

Tampines Rovers faced Kaya FC–Iloilo on 18th September 2025 at New Clark City Athletics Stadium, Philippines.