MANILA — Jada Bicierro scored the lone goal as Ateneo de Manila University edged the University of Santo Tomas, 1-0, for a triumphant start to its campaign in the UAAP Season 89 women's football tournament on Wednesday.
Bicierro, the league's best striker last season, broke the deadlock in the 50th minute after Ateneo had spent much of the match without possession.
Celina Salazar delivered a perfectly-timed pass that Bicierro calmly finished, drilling her shot past UST goalkeeper Lizlie Garcia.
Ateneo's Jada Bicierro celebrates after scoring against UST in the UAAP Season 89 women's football tournament, September 23, 2026 at the UP Diliman Football Stadium. UAAP Media
Ateneo's defense stood firm from there, with rookie goalkeeper Brielle Olivia Baca coming up with several timely saves, particularly in stoppage time, to keep UST off the scoreboard.
"I guess we'll take it one game at a time. It's hard to determine right away if we are ready on this high level, but surely, the girls show the improvement, and especially the patience, and the resilience to stay with UST until the final whistle," long-time Blue Eagles head coach Bob Manlulo said.
Ateneo will next face De La Salle University, which also opened its campaign with a 1-0 victory over University of the Philippines, on Saturday at 7 p.m.
READ: Regarde goal lifts La Salle over UP in season-opener
UST had enjoyed the better start, with midfielder Joyce Gemberva leading the Golden Tigresses' early attack.
Gemberva, a rookie, had two chances to break the deadlock in quick succession, but her close-range attempt and ensuing free kick both went straight to Baca.
Princess Amilhamja then came close late in the first half, but Baca once again kept her goal unbreached as the teams entered halftime scoreless.
UST will look to bounce back against tournament debutants National University on Saturday at 2 p.m.