The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons staged a thrilling comeback to capture the UAAP Season 88 men’s football championship, stunning Far Eastern University 2–1 in extra time at Rizal Memorial Stadium on Monday.
Top-seeded UP (29 points) carried their elimination round momentum through the playoffs, defeating La Salle 1–0 in the Final Four before overcoming FEU to claim their 20th men’s division title—their first since Season 86 and against the same opponent they beat two seasons ago.
FEU initially took the lead in the 47th minute through Karl Absalon, but UP’s Charles Lobitaña converted a penalty in the 99th minute to equalize. Moments later, Ramil Bation III scored in the 104th minute of extra time, securing the championship for the Fighting Maroons and completing a season sweep of the Tamaraws.
Coach Popoy Clarino lauded his team’s perseverance, saying, “They worked together for the whole year. They made sacrifices… What a final. I thank FEU for giving us a game that brought out the best in us.”
Individual accolades included co-MVP honors for Tacardon and Lobitaña, Best Goalkeeper for Fonzy Gonzalez, and Best Defender for Lobitaña. FEU’s Selwyn Mamon took home Best Striker and Golden Boot with 10 goals, while Ateneo’s Dov Cariño was named Best Midfielder, and FEU freshman Kean Niu earned Rookie of the Year.
The University of Santo Tomas rounded out the podium with the bronze medal for the first time since Season 86.
