The University for Development Studies (UDS) has etched its name in history after defeating Brazil’s Paulista University 2–1 to win the FISU University World Cup in Dalian, China, becoming the first Ghanaian and African side to lift the trophy.
In a final that captivated over 40,000 fans at the Suoywan Stadium, the Ghanaian side overcame a shaky start to secure a dramatic late win. Paulista, the defending champions, struck in the opening minute, forcing UDS to chase the game.
The turning point came deep into stoppage time. In the 93rd minute, UDS captain Mohammed Asigre Sulemana equalised to send the match into extra time, reigniting hopes for the Tamale-based side. The contest reached its climax when Ezedeen Alhassan scored the decisive goal in the 121st minute, sealing a famous 2–1 victory for UDS.
“It was long and tough, but we never gave up,” striker Abdul Ganiyu Musah said after the match. “We believed, we fought, and we conquered.”
The victory has been described as a triumph not only for the university but also for Ghana and Africa. Analysts say the result underlines the growing competitiveness of African teams in global university football.
The UDS community expressed gratitude to the Ghana Football Association for its support throughout the campaign. University authorities hailed the achievement as an inspiration to young athletes across the country.
From being labelled outsiders at the start of the tournament, UDS’s rise to world champions has been widely celebrated as a testament to resilience, teamwork, and determination.
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