Meet the Future: Ateneo’s Mateo Lacson
MATEO LACSON NEVER EXPECTED much playtime in Season 87. His dad had just passed away, and simply making the team already felt like enough.
“My dad passed away that year. And I was content just making it to the team. I wanted him to see me play UAAP, but after his passing I was content just being a part of it.”
Through grief and limited opportunities, he held on to a quiet belief.
“I knew that my chance would come… and that is what kept me going.”
Now on his second year in the UAAP, Mateo Lacson has become one of Ateneo’s most reliable figures—steady in possession, mature in decision-making, and the engine that quietly powers the Blue Eagles’ game.
What makes this rise even more remarkable is that Mateo never expected it to happen this soon.
“Definitely not this early,” he says. “Joining the team last year, I only saw myself playing a lot and having an impact by my third year. I came here in Season 87 only aiming to have fun and make my dad proud as he hoped to see me make the team.”
Mateo Played for Three Years in Madrid
Before joining Ateneo, Mateo spent three crucial years playing for a local team in Madrid, Spain—an environment that elevated his football foundation.
“In high school, I played for a local team in Madrid. I would say the level there was, if not, the best I have ever experienced.”
He planned to continue playing in Spain for college, but life redirected him back to Manila. What stayed with him, however, were the habits and style that molded him into the player he is today.
“I can confidently say that my 3 years there have greatly impacted how I perform on the pitch today.”
How Manila Rebuilt a Madrid Striker
Returning home meant adjusting to a different version of the game compared to Spain’s technical, tactical rhythm.
“Coming back to Manila, I had to readjust to the physical demands of the game.”
That transition became easier because of the players around him—especially the defensive core he communicates with every match.
“What’s helped me a lot is definitely playing alongside my two center backs. Even as I’ve moved to playing in the midfield, communicating with my defensive players to support me every chance I get.”
‘I’m Having the Time of my Life’
Season 88 opened the door for Mateo to rise. With injuries affecting the squad, a bigger role naturally fell on him—one he embraced fully.
“Especially this season with our team being full of injuries, the chance to step up came, and I took it thanks to coach JP and my teammates.”
Pressure comes with responsibility, but Mateo chooses to welcome it.
“To be playing in UAAP is an honor, and I’m having the time of my life.”
His maturity and quick processing in midfield have earned him the reputation of being Ateneo’s quiet machine. The secret behind that composure?
“Coach JP makes it a point for every player to have full confidence when receiving the ball.”
“Even in Madrid, my role in the team would be the one handling the ball. And of course having confidence to always receive the ball, even with the risk of losing the ball.”
Mateo is Lined Up to Become a Pillar of Ateneo’s Football
Next season, with the departure of veterans like Dov Cariño and Kofi Agyei, Mateo is lined up to become one of the pillars of the Blue Eagles.
“Of course any chance at being the leader of the AMFT is an honor. My previous captains, Jet De La Cruz, Leo Maquiling, and Artuz Cezar are people I look up to. Even now, with Dov and Kofi, being under them is experience I will cherish forever.”
And if he’s given that responsibility?
“I’ll make sure to not disappoint the previous leaders of this team.”
Mateo Lacson is Ateneo’s Silent Engine
Today, Mateo Lacson is more than a promising young player. He is Ateneo’s silent engine—composed, reliable, and central to everything the Blue Eagles build on the pitch.
Season 88 didn’t just mark his breakthrough. It proved that he’s built for the moments that matter.
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