Julian Roxas headed home the match-winner in extra time as Ateneo subdued fierce rival De La Salle, 2-1, to claim its second UAAP men’s football crown in three seasons before a huge crowd at Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday night.
Roxas’ goal in the 100th minute completed an improbable comeback for the Blue Eagles, who needed Jarvey Gayoso’s stoppage-time strike to send the final into extra time.
It was another heartbreaking defeat for the Green Archers, who looked poised to end a 21-year title drought when rookie Mohammed Almohjili scored from just inside the box in the 78th minute.
La Salle started the afternoon in jubilant mood after the women’s team captured a third straight crown with a 2-0 victory over Far Eastern U in the finals.