UDS crowned champions of FISU University World Cup after defeating Brazil’s Paulista University

The University of Development Studies (UDS) emerged winners of the International University Sports Federation (FISU) University World Cup after defeating Brazil’s Paulista University 2-1 at the Suoyuwan Stadium in Dalian, China.

The UDS team became the first African university to lift the FISU University World Cup trophy after a hard-fought victory against Paulista University, who won the 2023 edition of the tournament.

UDS had an amazing performance in the finals, coming back from a goal down to upset their opponents in extra time in a thrilling match.

It was a difficult match for coach Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko’s men, who went down by a goal at the end of the first half following a spectacular strike from the Brazilian University.

Despite being impressive with possession and dominating the game, the UDS team had several attempts on goal, but the Paulista University goalkeeper made some good saves.

The UDS did get the equaliser very late in the game through Mohammed Sulemana, who tapped home from close range after poor defensive play from the Brazilian University team.

The game continued into extra time with UDS seeming like the more likely team to win, which they did with nearly the last kick of the game, courtesy Alhassan’s corner kick.

It was a proud moment for the Tamale-based University as the referee blew the final whistle and Captain Mohammed Sulemana lifted the cup for his team during the closing ceremony.

The UDS have had an impressive run in the tournament after an impressive campaign which saw them defeat the likes of the University of Sharjah of the UAE, Ramon Llull University of Spain, Kyungil University and the University of Granada en route to the final.

GNA