Manila, Philippines – Manila Digger FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Dewa United FC in the first leg of their AFC Challenge League quarterfinal clash on Thursday evening at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. A first-half strike from Kenji Nishioka gives Kim Versales’ side a slight advantage heading into next week’s return leg in Indonesia.
The match, part of the AFC Challenge League 2025/26™ quarterfinal stage, saw Manila Digger dominate possession but ultimately rely on Nishioka’s 21st-minute goal to separate the two sides. Dewa United struggled to find their rhythm and were largely contained by a resolute Digger defense, though they did have opportunities to equalize.
Early Goal Sets the Tone
Manila Digger started brightly, dictating the tempo and probing for openings. The breakthrough arrived in the 21st minute when Nishioka, receiving the ball in a dangerous position, unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net. The goal stemmed from a well-worked move, shifting the ball from right to left before finding Nishioka in space.
Dewa United attempted to respond, but their attacks lacked the same incisiveness as their hosts. A chance fell to Ousman Gai in the 29th minute, but his effort was well-saved by Manila Digger goalkeeper Omar Njie. Alexis Messidoro also tested Njie with a header from a corner, but again the Digger shot-stopper proved equal to the task.
Second Half Sees Limited Chances
The second half saw Dewa United make changes in an attempt to inject more life into their attack, but Manila Digger remained largely in control. The Indonesian side found it difficult to string together cohesive passages of play, with their players often too far apart and lacking the necessary support. The Digger’s defensive organization effectively stifled any sustained pressure from Dewa United.
As the game wore on, Dewa United increased their urgency, throwing more players forward in search of an equalizer. However, Manila Digger’s defense held firm, and Njie continued to impress with his shot-stopping ability. Despite a late push, Dewa United were unable to find a way through, leaving them with a one-goal deficit to overcome in the second leg.
Team Lineups
Manila Digger FC: Njie, Badjie, Sambou, Ashley, Joof, Nishioka, Manneh, Gai, Taningco, Tafem, Touray
Dewa United FC: Stevens, Kambuaya, Jenner, Johnathan, Fatari, Febriansyah, Lowe, Messidoro, Marukawa, Jaja, Alex
What’s Next for Both Sides?
Dewa United will now prepare to host Manila Digger FC at their home ground in Tangerang on March 12th for the second leg of the quarterfinal tie. They will need to overcome the one-goal deficit and secure a victory – or a score draw that results in a penalty shootout – to progress to the semi-finals of the AFC Challenge League. Manila Digger, meanwhile, will be looking to build on their first-leg advantage and finish the job on Indonesian soil.
The AFC Challenge League continues to showcase emerging talent from across Asia, and this quarterfinal matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams battle for a place in the next round. The return leg is poised to be a tense affair, with everything still to play for.
Fans can follow updates on the AFC’s official website (https://www.the-afc.com/en/club/afc_challenge_league.html) for the latest news and results.
