Far Eastern University (FEU) emerged as the inaugural champions of the United Women’s Invitational Football League, clinching a narrow 1-0 victory over Kaya FC-Iloilo in the final held last Sunday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Carmela Altiche netted the decisive goal for FEU in the 37th minute, securing the title for the Lady Tamaraws.
Goalkeeper Yasmine Elauria, fresh off her stint with the Philippine Women’s National Team, played a pivotal role with several crucial saves.
The win maintained FEU’s unbeaten streak in the cup division, which saw them win all five of their matches.
In the battle for third place, Manila Digger FC edged out University of the Philippines 1-0.
National team forward Quinley Quezada converted a penalty in the 36th minute to secure the win.
De La Salle University demonstrated its dominance in the Plate Division, delivering an emphatic 8-1 victory over Tuloy FC.
Tournament top scorer Alisha Del Campo led the charge with four goals, supported by Arantxa Trebol, Danielle Tanjangco, Aliexa Casi, and Samantha Toledo, each contributing a goal.
In an earlier match, University of Santo Tomas triumphed in a dramatic penalty shootout against Ateneo de Manila University.
After a 1-1 draw in regulation – Tootchie Eval’s goal for Ateneo was countered by Maria Gerona’s equalizer – UST secured a 5-4 win in the shootout.
FEU’s Dionesa Tolentin was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, while Elauria and Sarahgen Tulabing were honored as the best goalkeeper and best midfielder, respectively.
Kaya’s Hali Long earned the accolade for best defender, and De La Salle’s Del Campo was recognized as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.