Quezon city: University of the Philippines on Thursday night marched to the semifinal after beating Ateneo de Manila University, 1-0, in the UAAP Season 88 men's football tournament at the UP Diliman Football Field in Quezon City. Florenz Tacardon scored in the 85th minute, while goalkeeper Fonzy Gonzalez blocked the Blue Eagles' several attempts to seal the win. UP, the Season 86 champion, now has 22 points - five clear of reigning titlist Far Eastern University.

According to Philippines News Agency, University of Santo Tomas is at No. 3 with 14 points after prevailing over University of the East, 2-1, in the other game. The Fighting Maroons can earn a twice-to-beat advantage if they finish in the Top 2 after the eliminations.

'It was a very exciting game. Ateneo always brings in the fight. We were up for the challenge. The goal that Florenz made was really planned - that's what we wanted to do,' said UP head coach Popoy Clarino. 'That was the target; that cross was perfect and Florenz was in the right place, right time to head the ball in,' he added.

Ateneo goalkeeper JP Tansingco blocked Ramil Bation III's attempt in the 56th minute. However, the Blue Eagle Kofi Agyei also failed to score in the 79th minute. 'It's still the same - we take it one game at a time. We look to improve every game. We wanted to inspire the younger generation with how we play, and hopefully, they will want to play for UP. We also wanted to serve the UP community and, of course, give back,' said Clarino.

Ateneo, which bowed to UP, 2-3, in the first round, slid to fourth place with 11 points, followed by De La Salle University with nine points and Adamson University with five points. UP will face La Salle on Sunday at 6:30 p.m., while Ateneo will meet UE on Nov. 16 at 4 p.m.