FEU regains UAAP crown in penalty drama

Far Eastern University (FEU) secured its second title in three years following a dramatic 1-1 (5-4) win over Ateneo de Manila University in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s football tournament late Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Rico Braga’s game-winning penalty and Mon Diansuy’s crucial save in the shootout gave the Tamaraws just enough of a boost to edge past the Blue Eagles and claim the crown.

The Tamaraws’ previous title in Season 85 also came at the expense of the Blue Eagles, 4-1. 

The victory also avenged their heartbreaking 0-1 loss to the University of the Philippines in Season 86 and marked their 12th overall championship in the UAAP to cement their continued dominance in collegiate football. 

FEU’s Spanish head coach Roman Oliver made history as the first foreign tactician to lead a team to the UAAP title since Korean Kim Chul-Su guided the school to back-to-back titles in Season 76 and 77.

“Everything was against us, even with some unfair decisions and losing some players. But despite all these challenges, we fought,” Oliver said.

“We deserved the win. We had more chances than them in the 90 and 120 minutes. And then in the penalties, we missed the second, we were struggling, but we always came back. The gold is back home, so we’re very happy about that.” 

In the penalty shootout, Libarnes gave FEU the lead with a left-side shot, putting the Tamaraws ahead 2-1. Ateneo’s Maquiling responded quickly, netting a goal to level the score at 2-2.

FEU’s hopes dimmed when Edgar Aban’s shot was deflected by Ateneo’s goalkeeper, Cezar, giving the Blue Eagles the chance to take the lead. 

Dov Cariño capitalized on that opportunity, putting Ateneo ahead 3-2.

Mcjay Nañiel equalized for FEU in the next round of penalties, sending his shot to the right side of the net. 

However, Diansuy was unable to save Javier Bengson’s shot, leaving FEU still trailing 3-4.

Abdulnasser Mustapa kept FEU’s hopes alive with a successful penalty, and then the Tamaraws caught a break when Diansuy saved Andy Roxas’ shot, bringing the score level at 4.

With the pressure mounting, Rico Braga stepped up and scored the decisive penalty, sending his shot past Cezar to give FEU the 5-4 lead.

With the championship on the line, Diansuy redeemed his earlier slip-up by saving Jetro Flores’ shot, securing the 5-4 victory and sealing the Tamaraws’ triumph.