THE ATENEO Men’s Football Team (AMFT) came away with a convincing debut win against the Philippine Air Force F.C. (PAF), 4-2. The match was held on November 5 at the De La Salle University Biñan Football Field in Laguna. 

The Blue and White got off to a hot start, with Kofi Agyei scoring their first goal in the first minute of the match, courtesy of an impressive cross from Fonzy Escobin. However, Ateneo’s defense would prove to be shaky for the remainder of the first half, relying on physicality that resulted in foul trouble. 

Communication errors caused an own goal at the 38th minute, as Ateneo Goalkeeper Artuz Cezar failed to anticipate a pass back to him from BJ Cordero. The AMFT had a couple of chances to bounce back from this blunder, including attempts from Agyei and Luard Abaa, but the two failed to convert on each of them–ending the half with a score of 1-1.

A rested Blue Eagles squad completely dominated the second half of play, opening up goal-scoring opportunities through their fluid passing and dynamic movement. An impressive through ball from Dov Cariño set Agyei up for his second goal of the match at the 53rd minute. The two booters would connect again at the 62nd minute with a pass to Cariño for an easy tip-in goal, 3-1.

Following two unanswered goals in the second half, the Airmen narrowed the gap at the 70th minute, capitalizing on a scramble inside the penalty box. However, the AMFT kept their composure as Leo Maquiling’s free-kick at the 79-minute mark capped off the 4-2 opening victory for the Katipunan-based squad.

The Blue Eagles aim to continue their strong start in the tournament by going against the University of Batangas Brahmans on Saturday, November 20 at 8:00 AM at the Far Eastern University-Diliman Football Field in Quezon City.