University of the Philippines remains in search of a breakthrough victory at the end of the first round of action in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Football Tournament, held from September 20 – October 4, 2025, at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub Football Field.
UP 0-1 UST | September 21, 2025
The UPWFT’s first challenge would come in the form of UAAP S87 Bronze medalists University of Santo Tomas. The Diliman-based squad held the lion’s share of the possession in the first half, winning four corners and having four shots on target. Rookie Chelsea Maguad first sent a shot over the crossbar, while sophomore Isalyn Tundag notched another attempt that was keenly saved by UST keeper Lizzie Garcia.
In the second half, the Fighting Maroons attempts—including a series of free kicks—would go similarly astray. UST ultimately took the lead in the 67th minute after third year midfielder Rica Gerona’s screamer sailed past Maroon goalkeeper Julian Arrojado, a goal that would be enough to propel UST to their first win.
Maguad, a product of Negros Occidental, already has a number of accolades under her belt, including a Batang Pinoy gold (2023) and a Palarong Pambansa silver (2024). With such notable achievements, it comes as no surprise that the rookie has already established herself as one of the team’s go-tos, starting two of four games in the tournament so far. Despite her experience, Maguad admitted that she was not immune to the nerves that have come with debuting in the UAAP.
“I was honestly very nervous because this is a different level of competition,” she stated in an online interview. “But I reminded myself that I was here for a reason: to contribute and to grow with the team.”
The freshman winger also shared how this particular game against UST would forever live in her memory, stating that, “There are so many moments I’ll never forget, but the one that stands out the most is when I stepped on the field for my very first UAAP game. Hearing the crowd cheering, wearing the team jersey, and realizing that I was finally playing the game I’ve dreamed of for so long.”
She also expressed gratitude towards the team’s senior members. “Despite the challenges we faced, they never stopped guiding us, encouraging us, and showing us what it really means to fight as a team,” she said. “As a rookie, it’s such a privilege to learn from their experience. It’s something I will carry for a very long time, the lessons and inspiration I gained from them.”
As the second round draws closer, Maguad’s approach towards the game remains firm: “Work hard, support each other, and always push. Not just my teammates but also myself.”
“Even though we went winless in the first round, I believe that the experience made us hungrier to prove ourselves in the second round [and] to show what we can really do as a team,” she continued.
UP 0-4 FEU | September 24, 2025
UP would next meet the defending champions, the FEU Women’s Football Team. The Tamaraws’ first half goal, courtesy of senior Lenlen Cristobal, put the Morayta-based squad in the lead at halftime. The second half was firmly in FEU’s control, as they dominated possession and cleanly converted their chances into game-winning goals, with the first coming from Judie Arevalo at the 58’ minute mark. Regine Rebosura would widen the green and gold squad’s lead with a goal of her own at the 62’ minute mark, while her younger sister, Althea, sealed the win in stoppage time for the gold medalists with a timely header off a set piece.
UP 0-2 DLSU | September 27, 2025
The heartbreak would persist for UP in their match-up against S87 silver medalists, the DLSU Lady Booters, whom the Diliman team racked up a win against in their final game of last season.
Both teams struggled to convert chances in the first half, remaining in a deadlock at halftime. La Salle striker Dani Tanjanco managed to pierce through the stalemate in the 61st minute, netting the Lady Booters’ first goal against a resolute in goal performance by Maroon goalkeeper Mariel Sancho. The freshman would continue to be the bright spot in the Fighting Maroon’s game, as her goalkeeping prowess managed to delay a wider lead for DLSU. However, an own goal by sophomore Gabby Calope while defending inside the box would provide La Salle the gap they needed, and eventually, the win over the gritty Maroons.
Sancho’s cool collectedness on the pitch is no easy feat. In spite of the pressure that comes with being the team’s last line of defense, Sancho manages to stay calm by honing in on her training and preparation.
“I remind myself that every match is an opportunity to learn and improve,” she said in an interview. “I also practice staying calm and focused during [these] pressure situations.”
Sancho also shared the advice she received from her seniors, particularly veteran UAAP goalkeeper Roxy Eduave.
“I’ve had the privilege of learning from a senior like Ate Roxy Eduave,” Sancho stated. “Before the season started, she advised me to always communicate clearly with my defenders and to stay confident, even when mistakes happen. I’ve applied this by making sure I’m vocal during matches and encouraging my teammates.”
“I also try to maintain a positive attitude and know that every game is a chance to grow, just like she taught me,” she added.
UP 0-1 ATENEO | October 1, 2025
The Battle of Katipunan, which would be the UPWFT’s final match in Round 1, ended in a narrow victory for the side of the Blue Eagles, as Ateneo’s Jada Bicierro converted an assist from Celina Salazar at the 53’ minute mark.
The Fighting Maroons once more struggled to capitalize on their first half chances, despite sophomore standout Isalyn Tundag and former Kaya FC player Jazzy Borra both making close attempts. Fresh legs also failed to give the Diliman-based squad their first goal of the new season, as substitute Erisa Rivas’ attempts missed the back of the net.
The UPWFT currently sits fifth in the standings, with zero points and a -8 goal difference. They will look to improve their run in the second round of the tournament. Match fixtures have yet to be announced.
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