United City FC triumphs

MANILA, Philippines — United City FC marked its return to the domestic scene with a triumphant run in the Copa Paulino Alcantara capped by a come-from-behind 3-2 win over holder Kaya-Iloilo Sunday in Carmona, Cavite.

Pika Minegishi (52nd minute) and skipper Mike Ott (69th) delivered as UCFC wiped out Kaya’s initial 2-1 lead and wrested the crown in its first appearance since skipping the Philippines Football League’s lone tournament last year.

Kenshiro Daniels, a former Kaya player, also scored for United, firing the opening goal in the 11th minute before the defending champions countered with two courtesy of Robert Lopez Mendy (13th) and Jhan Melliza (31st).

It was the first Cup championship for United, which previously won the League title in 2020, and represented the country in the AFC Champions League and AFC Cup.