By Miguel Manotok

By AJ Alarcon

The Ateneo Blue Eagles kicked off their University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 Boys’ Football Tournament campaign with a 1–0 victory, courtesy of a clutch goal at the expense of last year’s executioners, the PAREF Southridge Admirals, on Saturday, January 17, at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Football Stadium.

Facing the side that knocked Ateneo out of Final Four contention last season, the Eagles entered the match with a hunger beyond simply winning an opening game. Team Captain Andres Dumlao shared, “The team was very excited and motivated for this game, especially because they ended our campaign last season.”

For much of the 90 minutes, the match appeared destined to end in a scoreless stalemate. However, Ateneo found a way to break through in stoppage time.

Deep into the dying moments of the match, Ateneo capitalized on a set piece as Manuel Simpao sent in a well-placed delivery from the corner. Andres Hizon connected with a decisive nod, breaking the deadlock and handing the Blue Eagles the win in the 90+5th minute.

Last season, a draw between the two sides proved costly for Ateneo, as it pushed the Admirals into the final Final Four spot. The Eagles finished with nine points and needed two more goals to surpass Southridge’s 10 points, trailing third seed De La Salle–Zobel (DLSZ), which tallied 13.

In that encounter, following Francis Poticano’s 42nd-minute opener, Ateneo found an equalizer in the 74th minute through John Molina. However, Southridge’s defense managed to hold on until the final whistle, earning the draw that kept them ahead of the Eagles in the standings.

Dumlao added that the growing rivalry “helped us stay focused and locked in for our opening game.”

Still, with tougher matches ahead, the Eagles know this victory is only the beginning. “Of course, we all have to stay focused in every aspect — mentally and physically — and follow our coaches’ instructions,” the captain said.

He further explained that for their winning momentum to carry over, the team must take things step by step.

Beyond the players who took the field, Dumlao also acknowledged the boost provided by the supporters on the sidelines. Expressing his gratitude, he said, “We will do our best for the school and hopefully have a good result this season.”

On January 24, the UP Diliman Football Stadium will host another wing battle as Ateneo looks to secure a second straight win, this time against the Claret Red Roosters.