CRFA's U-16 Campaign Ends in Disappointment at PFF Regional Qualifiers
The Cebu Regional Football Association (CRFA) saw its hopes for national glory dashed after a decisive loss in the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) U-16 Boys National Championship Regional Qualifiers. In a must-win match held on January 23, 2026, at the SJRI football pitch in San Carlos City, CRFA was outclassed by the host team, Negros Occidental Regional Football Association (NORFA), with a final score of 0-3.
Mathematical Elimination Seals CRFA's Fate
Even if CRFA had managed to secure a victory over NORFA, their path to the national finals would have remained blocked. This is because Iloilo-Guimaras Regional Football Association (IGRFA) clinched a 2-0 win against Eastern Visayas Regional Football Association (EVRFA) in their final match. The only scenario that could have propelled CRFA forward was a combination of a win over NORFA and either a draw or loss for IGRFA against EVRFA, a set of conditions that ultimately did not materialize.
Final Standings and Qualification Criteria
The Visayas qualifying round concluded with NORFA finishing at the top of the table, amassing an impressive 12 points. IGRFA secured the second spot with 9 points, while CRFA fell short, ending their campaign with only 4 points. According to the tournament rules, only the top two teams from the Visayas region advance to the highly anticipated national championships, leaving CRFA on the outside looking in.
This result marks a significant setback for CRFA's youth development program, highlighting the competitive intensity of regional football in the Philippines. The team's early exit underscores the challenges faced by aspiring young athletes in their quest for national recognition and success.
