Sustaining its fine form, Global FC took a step closer towards retaining its title with a 1-0 victory over newcomer Pachanga in the quarterfinals of the United Football League Cup last Saturday.

William Guerridon struck in the 27th minute in front of a big crowd at the University of Makati Stadium and Global limited Pachanga to a series of half-chances to ensure its passage to the next round. 

Global will face Air Force in the semifinals in a rematch of last year's finals. 

The defending champions came into the game high on confidence after a 3-nil beating of Army in the round of 16.

But they were on the backfoot early on with Joven Bedic providing the threat for Pachanga, which had four key players out because of suspension, forcing coach Norman Fegidero to dig deep into his roster and play the likes of Ugochokwo Ubiam out of position.

Bedic had a chance from just inside the box going wide in the first 10 minutes as Pachanga's attacking woes continued even after its penalty shootout win over Navy in the round of 16. 

It was Global that figured out a way to break the deadlock in a cagey opening. And it was Guerridon finding the back of the net for the first time since joining Global late last season. 

Paolo Pascual's long punt was flicked on by Izo El-Habbib to Janrick Soriano, who crossed from the left flank for Guerridon to volley home. 

The finish was masterful as Guerridon left his marker - Neckson Leonora - for dead to find the opening he needed to beat Kenneth Dolloso on the Global goal. 

The goal settled Global's nerves as Yu Hoshide, Val Kama, Ange Tressor Guiso and Jerry Barbaso effectively marshalled the defense to keep Pachanga at bay. 

The best Pachanga could do from there was test Pascual from long range with substitute Joshua Fegidero firing a rocket from 35 yards out that the Cebuano keeper was able to keep out.

With Global's defense back to its rock-solid best, Pascual has kept a clean sheet the past two games. 

Hoshide, named captain for the game, was an influential figure at midfield, before limping off in the second half to make way for Angel Guirado. 

Kama provided solid cover for the back four, despite being hobbled by a groin injury. 

For the first time in the tournament and in what could be a portent of things to come, Global unleashed its strongest attacking combination when coach Graeme MacKinnon sent in Misagh Bahadoran to link up with Soriano, Izo El-Habbib, Guirado and Guerridon up front. 

MacKinnon said the tough matches leading to the quarterfinals helped his side cope with the pressure against Pachanga, which battled his squad to a 2-2 draw in the group stage. 

"I have to give credit to the players for the commitment they have shown in the match," said MacKinnon. 

"Several players were injured but played through and kept fighting. It shows their commitment to the club and its fans."