North-South duel on today

MANILA, Philippines — With momentum likely to prove decisive in a three-day team battle, the North and South brace for a high-stakes showdown as the ICTSI Elite Junior PGT Finals blasts off today at the Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro.

Both sides are coming off a long, grueling campaign highlighted by six legs of regional qualifying and now bring their best young players into a Ryder Cup-style showdown that will test not only their shot-making but also their composure under pressure.

And with four-ball matches opening the Finals today, getting off to a strong start could prove crucial.

Day I will feature the best-ball competition, with both sides expected to field their strongest partnerships in the 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18 age categories. Each player will play his or her own ball, with the better score of the pair counting on each hole.

Day 2 shifts to the challenging foursomes (alternate shot), before the deciding singles matches are played on Thursday.

North coach Joey Anciano knows the opening exchanges could set the tone for the entire showdown, but stressed that staying composed in pressure-packed moments will ultimately separate the winner from the loser.