By Joaquin Salazar, correspondent, UP Diliman Information Office
The UP Men’s Football Team (UPMFT) secured their 20th championship after defeating Far Eastern University (FEU), 2–1, in the Finals of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 men’s football tournament on Feb. 23 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Trailing 1–0 for most of the game following a 45+1’ goal by FEU’s Karl Absalon, the UPMFT refused to back down and ramped up their offense in the second half. In the 90+9th minute of the game, UPMFT’s Florenz Tacardon was fouled inside the box by FEU’s Francis Sambaan, but UPMFT’s team captain Charles Lobitaña calmly converted his spot-kick to even the score and force extra time.
Riding the momentum, the UPMFT struck again 13 minutes into the first half of extra time. Kendrick Saludez delivered a cross to Ramil Bation III, who found the back of the net to give UPMFT the lead. Anchored by disciplined defense and the stellar goalkeeping from Alfonso Gonzales, the UPMFT held firm to capture their second championship in two years, following their Season 86 triumph.
Three UPMFT standouts earned individual honors. Co-captains Tacardon and Lobitaña were named Most Valuable Players; Lobitaña was also recognized as Best Defender, and Gonzales was awarded with the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. The UPMFT also received the Fair Play Award.
Meanwhile, the University, through the Office for Athletics and Sports Development, organized Liyab 2026, a bonfire celebration to honor the UPMFT’s championship feat. Held Feb. 25 at the UP Diliman Baseball Field, the celebration was attended by family, friends, supporters of the UPMFT, and UP President Angelo A. Jimenez.