Quezon city: Far Eastern University and De La Salle University are gearing up to reignite their rivalry in the UAAP Season 88 women's football final, scheduled for Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Field. The match, set to kick off at 5 p.m., promises high stakes as the Lady Tamaraws aim for their fourth consecutive title after a dominant eight-win run in the elimination round.

According to Philippines News Agency, this final marks the fifth title clash between these two teams, with their rivalry tracing back to Season 81 when La Salle clinched a 2-0 victory, thanks to standout performances by Sara Casta±eda and Shai Del Campo. However, FEU has since turned the tide, securing victories in Seasons 85, 86, and 87. The Lady Tamaraws, led by Inday Tolentino, are poised to capture their 14th overall title, having secured their final berth with a decisive 2-0 win over the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses on October 18.

FEU coach Let Dimzon is urging her team to maintain discipline and sharpness, emphasizing the unpredictability of finals. FEU has already bested La Salle twice in the eliminations, with identical 2-1 victories. Dimzon, a former national coach, stresses the importance of focusing on their attacking and defensive strategies and optimizing player rotation.

Leading FEU's charge are Golden Boot contenders Judie Rose Arevalo, Regine Rebosura, and Marinell Cristobal. Arevalo currently leads with seven goals, while Rebosura and Cristobal have each netted five. Meanwhile, La Salle, despite recent setbacks, remains determined to break their runner-up streak. They will rely on Season 87 Rookie of the Year and Golden Boot co-winner Dani Tanjangco, who has scored three goals this season.

La Salle head coach Alvin Ocampo encourages his team to embrace the pressure and play with passion, highlighting the importance of mental toughness and resilience as they prepare for this crucial encounter.