THE ATENEO Men’s Football Team (AMFT) suffered a crucial 1-2 defeat at the hands of Malaya F.C. in the Ang Liga Men’s Open Cup 2026 earlier this afternoon, May 31, at Circuit Makati in the City of Makati.

With the loss, Ateneo’s chances for qualification to the next stage have taken a major blow as their fate remains reliant on other teams’ results in the succeeding matches.

The Blue Eagles remain at fifth in the standings, with one point and a -5 goal differential after today’s match.

With both sides seeking a victory, the match remained tightly contested throughout the opening stages, as Malaya controlled the tempo through an aggressive high press. However, goalkeeper Alfonso Loja’s defense managed to weather the pressure and keep the match scoreless.

Despite spending much of the first half on the back foot, Ateneo struck first in the 19th minute after Ranzo Aljama was fouled in dangerous territory. Team Captain Dov Cariño then capitalized on the following sequence by converting a rebound half-volley, giving the Blue Eagles a 1-0 lead. 

The advantage, however, was erased in the 34th minute when Malaya capped off the first half with a swift counterattack to level the match at 1-1. 

Opening the second half with renewed urgency, Ateneo created a pair of promising opportunities through Andrei Gonzales, Ethan Roxas, and Cariño. However, the Blue Eagles were unable to find a finishing touch as the Malaya defense continued to stand firm.

Although the Blue Eagles displayed admirable endurance throughout the half, a free kick from Ateneo’s turf led to a dangerous loose ball inside the box. Malaya then reacted quickly on the rebound and converted their own version of a half-volley, sending Ateneo into a 1-2 hole.

Facing a deficit, Ateneo pushed numbers forward in search of an equalizer. This effort generated several late opportunities, including a valiant run by Cariño that was halted by a timely defensive challenge. However, their persistent pressure was not enough to salvage a draw as Malaya FC’s defense held intact until the final whistle, condemning Ateneo to a 1-2 defeat.

As of writing, the venue and schedule of the AMFT’s next Ang Liga match are yet to be announced.

Group B Standings — Points (GD):

1. Kaya F.C. Academy Elite – 10 (+5)
2. Malaya F.C. – 10 (+5)
3. DLSU Green Booters – 7 (+4)
4. UP Fighting Maroons Ikot – 3 (+1)
5. ATENEO Blue Eagles – 1 (-5)
6. Tuloy F.C. – 0 (-10)