The defending men’s football champions Ateneo de Manila University began its UAAP title defense campaign by stunning season 85 favorites University of the Philippines (UP), 1-0, Thursday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
An early goal by midfielder Wilmer Lopez sealed the deal as the Blue Eagles parked the bus the entirety of the match henceforth.
Lopez goaled on a rebound in the 21st minutes off a botched header by forward Kofi Agyei that was softly tapped out by goalkeeper Fredrick Tiambeng.
UP, while dominating possession, tried but failed in creating decent chances in their final third save for a header attempt by Edmund Venus in the 90th minute that was deflected by Ateneo goalie Artuz Cezar.
Ateneo, though, maintained their lockdown defense despite an extended added time of 11 minutes in the second half due to numerous injuries—mostly from cramps—in Ateneo’s side.
“This game was very thrilling after we scored first [but] there were mishaps along the way that we’ve managed,” Lopez, who scored his maiden UAAP goal, said after the game.
“However, I guess we could [do] more extra work and recovery exercises,” he added, referring to Ateneo’s string of second half injuries.
Despite the win, Ateneo head coach JP Merida lamented of his men’s performance and was apologetic about his team’s lackluster handling of their possessions after Lopez’s goal.
“We didn’t plan on playing a low block. Our plan was to attack. It’s very difficult to manage if you’re leading by just one goal,” he said.
For UP’s multi-titled head coach Anto Gonzales, the team has to work on their “defensive transition” and the “balancing of their positioning on offense.”
Photos by Ronin Bautista
