In a heart-stopping conclusion to the Aboitiz Football Cup U14 tournament, Giuseppe Football Club emerged victorious over Don Bosco Football Club in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing a 9-8 win to claim the championship title. The thrilling final took place on February 14, 2026, at the Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex, where both teams battled fiercely through regulation and extra time without a single goal being scored.
A Defensive Battle from Start to Finish
The championship match began with Don Bosco Football Club displaying aggressive tactics, executing numerous ball steals and launching several attempts on goal during the first half. However, Giuseppe's goalkeeper stood firm, making critical saves to deny any breakthroughs. Giuseppe responded with their own attacking opportunities, but Don Bosco's goalkeeper matched the performance with crucial interventions, ensuring the score remained locked at 0-0 as the teams headed into halftime.
Physicality and Fatigue Take Their Toll
The second half saw an increase in physical play, resulting in multiple fouls called against both squads. Despite sustained pressure from both sides, neither team could find the back of the net, thanks to solid defensive efforts and exceptional goalkeeping. As the match progressed into extra time, fatigue and injuries began to impact the players. A Don Bosco player suffered a nosebleed after being accidentally struck in the face by the ball, while several athletes from both teams experienced cramps, highlighting the intense nature of the contest.
Giuseppe made strategic substitutions to maintain energy levels on the field, but the deadlock persisted, ultimately forcing the match into a penalty shootout. As rain began to drizzle, adding to the tension, the decisive moment arrived when Don Bosco's goalkeeper missed his penalty attempt. Giuseppe's goalkeeper then calmly converted his shot, sealing the 9-8 victory and clinching the championship title for his team.
Post-Match Reflections on Resilience and Composure
In a post-match interview, Giuseppe's assistant coach, Reeve Andre Sumayod, emphasized the importance of composure during the high-pressure shootout. "It was so crucial, especially in the shootout. Almost all of the players took the penalty but thank the Lord, we won. We offer our win to the Lord God," Sumayod stated, reflecting on the team's mental fortitude.
Assistant team captain Darl Mathew Pantinople credited the team's resilience, particularly given their undermanned situation late in the match. "We showed resilience by not giving up and still working even though there's a lot of our players that were injured," Pantinople explained. "For the extra time we just did low block because we know that we are in a disadvantage position. We only have nine players in the field. We had to fight all the way through."
This victory marks a significant achievement for Giuseppe Football Club in the Aboitiz Football Cup U14, showcasing their determination and skill in a closely contested final that will be remembered for its dramatic finish.
