After a thrilling semi-final encounter, the University of the Philippines and Far Eastern University will contest for the PFF Women’s Cup this Saturday after both teams won over their opponents last Sunday, 11 December 2022 at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
UP shocks Kaya with penalty shootout win
It took the University of the Philippines 120 minutes and a penalty shootout to produce a monumental upset and defeat Kaya FC-Iloilo, 5-4 on penalties as it ended scoreless at the end of extra-time.
Substitute Jazinda Borra scored the deciding penalty to send UP through to the final as Kaya had to endure two misses from defender Mea Bernal and goalkeeper Inna Palacios during the shootout.
UP goalkeeper Frances Acelo also kept Kaya at bay, producing a bevy of saves throughout the match, while defender Jennifer Baroin marshalled the defense en route to a player of the match plum, denying top scorer Shelah Mae Cadag, Charisa Lemoran, and Hazel Lustan.
“It was just a team effort, it was just all of us doing our best as a team collectively and we fought for it,” said Baroin. “I am so proud of myself, my teammates for everything that we were able to accomplish. We really showed our hearts and efforts.”
FEU blanks Tuloy, 3-0
The second semi-final match saw Far Eastern University rebound from their lost over Tuloy FC last week with a 3-0 turnaround.
Katrina Magbitang started the rout with her 18th minute opener. Sarahgen Tulabing sent a nifty pass to Dionesa Tolentin, who cut it back to Magbitang to score past Mykaella Abeto.
Lylhanie Cayabyab added a second at the hour mark. The Tuloy defense bundled the ball near the box, allowing the midfielder to direct her shot past an open goal.
Tolentin rounded off the result with a chipped shot in the 79th minute to confirm their place in the final.
“We are happy because we were able to apply the instructions of coach,” said Magbitang. “Our last game against Tuloy was an eye opener for us and that’s why we had to improve on our play to get this win.”
UP and FEU will contest the final match on Saturday, 17 December 2022 at the PFF National Training Center. The third place match between Kaya and Tuloy will be played before the final match.