MANILA — Lara Regarde delivered the decisive goal as De La Salle University opened its campaign in the UAAP Season 89 women's football tournament with a 1-0 win over the University of the Philippines on Wednesday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
Regarde broke the deadlock in the 56th minute, heading home after capitalizing on a deflection from UP goalkeeper Mariel Sancho to put the Lady Booters ahead.
Lara Regarde of La Salle in action against UP in the UAAP Season 89 women's football tournament, September 23, 2026 at the UP Diliman Football Stadium. UAAP Media
The victory gave La Salle its first three points under newly installed head coach and former University of Santo Tomas standout Joyce Landangan as the Lady Booters begin their bid to reclaim the championship they last won in Season 81 (2018-19).
La Salle has finished as runner-up in each of the last four seasons.
The Lady Booters had a chance to take the lead just before halftime, but Dani Tanjuangco's attempt sailed over the bar as both teams entered the break scoreless.
La Salle continued to press for an insurance goal after taking the lead but could not convert its chances, settling for the narrow victory.
"I commend the girls because they worked and fought hard until the end. We have a lot of things to work on, but we're here to learn along the way," said Landangan.
Meanwhile, UP created the better chances in the opening half, with midfielder Aurea Reaso making her return after missing the previous season due to injury.
Reaso came close to breaking the deadlock in the 31st and 34th minutes but failed to convert either opportunity.
The Fighting Maroons mounted a late push for the equalizer, with Bem Aranas getting a chance in stoppage time.
However, La Salle goalkeeper Ushin Valencia was there to deny the attempt and preserve the Lady Booters' lead.
UP head coach Anto Gonzalez was also sent off before the final whistle. Referee Chrismel Cayabyab initially showed Gonzalez a straight red card before rescinding the decision and downgrading it to a second yellow, which still resulted in his dismissal.
La Salle returns to action on Saturday against longtime rival Ateneo de Manila University at 7 p.m.
"I think it's going to be a good game. Rivals, of course, but we will prepare this week and see what will happen on the game, but definitely we will come to that game prepared," Landangan said.
UP, meanwhile, will look to bounce back against four-time defending champion Far Eastern University on Saturday at 4:30 p.m.