Benilde ousts San Beda, advances to NCAA football finals

Wilmer Paolo Lopez inspired College of St. Benilde to a 1-0 victory over defending champion San Beda in the semifinals of the NCAA Season 93 men’s football tournament Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Lopez, who came in as a 30th minute substitute for Peter John Quilo, found the back of the net in the 85th minute that set-up a best-of-three finals against Arellano University.

The Blazers will look to win its first title in nine years and third overall.

“I told them we can win this if we keep it close up to the last minute and I’m happy that we did,” said Blazers head coach Marlon Maro.

San Beda could’ve gotten a chance for its 22nd league title, making it the winningest school in NCAA history, but has to settle with 21, which is a tie with former member-school La Salle.

Dooming the Red Booters’ side were the three forfeited games that Dane Peñaflor played in after it was discovered that the midfielder was ineligible due to academics.

The forfeited games saw San Beda drop to no.4 and that set up their semifinals match against Benilde.