Archrivals De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University will kick off the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Football Tournament in the first match at 4:00 PM today, followed by University of Santo Tomas and University of the Philippines at 6:30 PM.
Both matches will take place at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite, as part of the venue’s inaugural blessing and opening day event.
Defending champion Far Eastern University will have a bye in the opening round.
For La Salle, the shadow of finishing as runner-up to FEU from Seasons 85–87 still lingers. Failing to claim the gold for a fourth straight year would add another disappointment for the Lady Archers.
Amid the pressure, coach Alvin Ocampo is urging his players to give everything in their pursuit of the crown.
“In football, things will not always go our way,” said Ocampo. “There will be tough calls, strong opponents, and moments that test our patience. But this is where we show our true character.
“Like what Ms. Dina (Bernardo) said, ‘Grit.’ We will not waste our energy on complaints or excuses. Instead, we will put our focus on playing, fighting for every ball, and supporting each other until the final whistle.”
Meanwhile, Ateneo coach Bob Manlulo is aiming for the Blue Eagles to finish higher in the standings than in recent seasons. Ateneo last reached the podium in Season 79, led by national team forward Cam Rodriguez.
With all teams starting on a clean slate, Manlulo wants his squad to make a statement by challenging last season’s finalists.
“For our first game against DLSU, we have to contain the strong attacking line of our opponent and at the same time try to penetrate their aggressive defensive back to score a goal,” said Manlulo.
“Since it’s a traditional school rivalry — One Big Fight for Ateneo and Animo for DLSU — I expect a hard and physical game this weekend.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
UST, on the other hand, hopes to return to the finals for the first time since Season 80, aiming to win its first championship since Season 74. The Lady Booters are looking to build on their third-place finish last season and give their seniors a shot at ending their UAAP careers with a championship.
“Goal this season makapasok sa finals bago umalis yung mga graduating players,” said UST coach Marjo Allado. “Madami kasi sila at yan yung isang goal nila. Kaya sobrang focus nila ngayon sa Season 88.”
FEU, which had an opening day bye, will begin its bid for a fourth consecutive crown on Wednesday against UP at the Vermosa Sports Hub.
While the Lady Tamaraws are favorites to continue their dominance, coach Let Dimzon emphasizes discipline and consistency. She wants her team to prove itself in training and carry that performance into matches before setting its sights on another gold.
“The team has been working hard every day, and we know that going for a four-peat is never easy,” said Dimzon. “Our objective is more than the title itself. Our focus is on growth, consistency, and playing the FEU brand of football with pride and discipline.
“If we are blessed to achieve the four-peat, it’s the reflection of everyone’s commitment and discipline. For now, we stay grounded and keep preparing well.”
Season 88 is expected to conclude in early November, just in time for the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, scheduled from 21 November to 7 December at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
