MANILA -- The University of the Philippines, playing without its head coach and two key players, still had enough to claim a 1-0 win against the University of the East in its first game of the UAAP Season 88 men's football tournament.
The Fighting Maroons entered Sunday's match at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite without head coach Popoy Clarino, who was handed a touchline ban following last year's altercation with Far Eastern University in the Season 87 semifinals.
Charles Lobitaña and Eric Mink Cachuella were also absent due to their involvement in last year's incident against the Tamaraws.
But Ramil Bation III, who scored seven goals for the Fighting Maroons last season, fired UP ahead with a header in the 39th minute and they held on from there.
Ramil Bation III of UP in action against UE in the UAAP Season 88 men's football tournament, September 21, 2025 at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite. UAAP Media
"It was a good goal," said assistant coach Ojay Clarino, who deputized for his older brother Popoy. "Also, it was a good delivery from Cian Galsim. As long as the ball is delivered well, we have players inside who can capitalize."
Trailing by a goal, UE struggled to convert its possession into scoring opportunities.
The Red Warriors struck the post moments after Bation's goal, and the second half saw them launch a series of tentative shots and entries into the Fighting Maroons' box, but nothing came of it—even with two UP players down on the pitch.
In the seven minutes of added time, UE substitute Edmar Adonis had a free kick that UP goalkeeper Alfonso Gonzalez handled easily.
UE had one last chance to equalize in the dying moments, but a cross from the right flank was not met by any Red Warrior and was cleared for a corner.
Gonzalez then secured the ball in the ensuing play, ensuring that UP held on for the narrow victory.
UP will next face FEU on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the same Cavite venue, in a rematch of last year's semifinal clash.
With two perennial championship contenders set to collide, Ojay Clarino emphasized that the Fighting Maroons are not seeking revenge but are focused on securing three points to maintain their winning start.
"Maybe for the players it feels like revenge, but we're focusing on one game at a time," he said. "The goal is to correct our mistakes and improve as a team as the season progresses."
Meanwhile, UE will look to bounce back against De La Salle University in Thursday's 2 p.m. kickoff at Vermosa.