The University for Development Studies (UDS) has written a golden chapter in Ghana’s sporting history after clinching the 2025 FISU World University Football Championship in Dalian, China.
In a pulsating final against Brazil’s Paulista University, UDS came from behind to claim a dramatic 2-1 victory, with the winning goal arriving in the 121st minute of extra time.
The match had begun with the Brazilians showing their pedigree, breaking the deadlock in the first half and holding their lead deep into the contest. But UDS, who had spent the tournament defying the odds, refused to let the moment slip. The Ghanaian side grew stronger as the game wore on, eventually drawing level in the second half and forcing the final into extra time. What followed was a contest of nerves and endurance, as both sides pushed for glory, knowing a single mistake or flash of brilliance could settle it.
With penalties looming, UDS found their breakthrough. In the dying moments of added time, the team delivered a stunning strike that sealed a historic comeback, sparking jubilant celebrations among players, staff, and fans alike.
This victory capped a remarkable campaign for the Tamale-based university, who had stormed through the group stages unbeaten, overcome South Korea’s Kyungil University in the quarterfinals, and held their nerve in a tense semifinal shoot-out against Spain’s University of Granada. Led by coach Ibrahim Tanko, UDS combined discipline, flair, and resilience throughout the tournament, embodying the spirit of Ghanaian football on the global stage.
For Ghana and Africa, the triumph is more than just silverware. It is the first time a Ghanaian university has lifted the FISU crown, a testament to the growing strength of African university sport and a source of inspiration for future generations of student-athletes. From underdogs to world champions, UDS has shown that belief, hard work, and unity can carry dreams from Tamale to the world.
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Story by Samuel Annang | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
