As Ateneo de Manila University marches into the final of the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament this Sunday, they bring with them the division’s top two scorers: Dov Cariño and Leo Maquiling, who have netted 11 and eight goals, respectively, this season.
The Blue Eagles, aiming for their first title since Season 85, secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the UST Golden Booters in the semifinals last Sunday. Maquiling set the tone early, scoring just 14 minutes into the match at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
While the final whistle sparked celebrations among Ateneo supporters, the players remained focused on the bigger goal ahead.
“I’m very happy about the game,” said Cariño.
“Of course, it always feels good to end up in the finals, and we’re all gonna train hard this week to hopefully win the finals.”
Maquiling echoed his teammate’s sentiments, recalling past heartbreaks as added fuel for their championship bid.
“Even in the past, in Season 85, we lost against FEU in the finals, and then in Season 86, we lost against FEU in the semi-finals,” he shared.
“I guess this is added motivation for us to really win against FEU and get the championship back.”
Before the semifinals, Cariño and Maquiling made headlines for their selection to the Philippine Men’s National Football Team for the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, which kicked off earlier this week.
However, it remains uncertain how much playing time they will see in the national team’s campaign, as the Philippines’ first two matches coincide with Ateneo’s finals preparations. Nevertheless, being called up as collegiate players is a milestone in itself.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“I’m very happy because it’s been my dream since I was a kid,” said Cariño.
“Now, I just want to prove that I should be there, and I want the opportunity to play for my country.”
Maquiling expressed similar gratitude.
“I’m really honored and grateful to be a part of the national team. It’s been a dream of mine to be part of the senior national team. I’ve been part of the youth national team before, but it’s great to be part of the senior national team as well.”
As the duo prepares for the finals, their focus shifts from individual accolades to the ultimate team goal: helping Ateneo secure its ninth UAAP men’s football crown.
Facing the FEU Tamaraws, who are equally determined to complete their redemption arc, will be no easy task. But the Blue Eagles are prepared to give it their all.
“It’s looking good,” said Cariño.
“I think the preparations are going well, and I believe we can get a good result in our next game.”
“I’m very happy we won the semifinals,” added Maquiling.
“We had a hard time, but a win is a win. I hope we’ll be able to perform better as we prepare against FEU for the final.”
With determination and a relentless drive to end their title drought, the Blue Eagles are ready to leave it all on the pitch this Sunday.
