The Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games officially kicked off on Sunday, with football being the first sport played across various venues, including the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU) campuses.
Unfortunately, Nigerian universities had a tough start, as none of the teams from the host nation secured a victory, with the best result being a draw.
Hosts stunned
In a shocking result, the UNILAG football team were defeated 1-0 by the University for Development Studies (UDS) from Ghana. Jorge Renchi’s lone goal in the 92nd minute earned UDS a dramatic victory in what has been dubbed the “Jollof Derby.”
UNILAG had a great opportunity to score the first goal of the tournament when Oladepo Samuel won a penalty after being fouled in the first half. However, the chance was missed as Ghanaian goalkeeper Emmanuel Edo saved Omotosho Doyinsola’s spot-kick in the 40th minute. The first half ended goalless, and despite continued pressure from the Marines, Renchi’s late strike sealed the win for UDS.
University of Jos lost to Ugandan university
The University of Jos suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Nkumba University from Uganda, marking the largest goal margin of the day. Nkumba’s forward, Kavumba Abbey, scored twice, once in each half, securing the Ugandan university’s first win and making Abbey the tournament’s leading scorer with two goals.
Nkumba leads Group A, thanks to their goal advantage over UDS, who also won against UNILAG 8.
Draws in LASU
Both matches played at the LASU venue ended in draws. LASU played a 1-1 draw with Kenyatta University, while Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) and the University of Ghana battled to a goalless stalemate. Kenyatta University currently tops Group B after their win.
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you.
Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation.
Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories —no paywalls, just quality journalism.
Reactions
Nkumba University midfielder Sadik Mucibi attributed their success to determination, hard work, and teamwork.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy,” Mucibi said in a post-game interview. “Our opponents were physical, tall, and big, while my teammates were relatively short and small. But we made up for it with our teamwork and determination.”
He emphasised the team’s unity, stating, “We worked together from the start, and that’s what won us the game.”
Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999