United City FC put an end to Dynamic Herb Cebu’s title ambitions in the 2022 Copa Paulino Alcantara after claiming a 1-0 victory in their semifinal match on Tuesday, May 17 at the PFF National Training Centre in Carmona, Cavite.
Simen Lyngbo’s goal at the hour mark was enough to propel the 2020 Philippines Football League champions to Copa Final despite a rollercoaster campaign in the elimination round.
The win set up a title showdown with defending champion Kaya-Iloilo on Sunday and a chance to complete a triumphant return to the domestic scene after skipping last year’s Copa.
United City finished just third after drawing the final three games of the eliminations, including a 1-1 draw against Cebu last May 8.
Cebu will take on Stallion-Laguna for third place on Sunday after the bid to capture the Copa title in just its second year in top-flight football was dashed.
The Gentle Giants won their first four games in the eliminations before entering the semis as the No. 2 seed.
Both clubs had their chances to score in the first 45 minutes, with a pair of shots by United City captain Mike Ott getting stopped by Cebu goalie Ace Villanueva.
Cebu had its own opportunities with Arda Cinkir testing United City keeper Anthony Pinthus twice and one long attempt by Mert Altinoz going over the crossbar.
United City found the opening with a half-hour remaining from normal time as a foul by Chima Uzoka past midfield set up a free kick.
Kenshiro Daniels’ kick was good enough for Lyngbo to send into the back of the net and give United City the advantage.
It was Lyngbo’s first goal since signing with United City before the start of the campaign.
United City could have made it 2-0 after Cebu’s Charles Dabao was called for handball in the 73rd.
Ott, however, could convert from the spot as his low attempt was deflected by Villanueva. Despite that defensive play, the equalizing goal eluded Cebu until the final whistle.