The University for Development Studies (UDS) are champions of the 2025 World University Football Games after defeating holders Paulista University of Brazil 2-1 in a dramatic final.
The Ghanaian side, unbeaten in six matches throughout the tournament, displayed grit and resilience before nearly 23,000 fans. Their triumph makes them the first African university to lift the title, cementing their place in the competition’s history.
Paulista made a flying start, taking the lead within 30 seconds when Gabriel Viera pounced on a defensive error to lob goalkeeper Emmanuel Edo. UDS, however, grew into the contest, dominating possession but struggling to convert their chances.
Their persistence was rewarded deep into stoppage time. Captain Asigre Sulemana struck from close range in the 93rd minute after Frimpong forced a save from Silva, sending the match into extra time.
UDS pressed for the winner and finally broke through in the 121st minute when Ezedeen Alhassan’s curling corner evaded Silva and nestled in the net, sparking jubilant celebrations on the Ghanaian bench.
The victory dethroned Paulista, champions in 2023, and underscored the growing strength of African university football.
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Sports both congratulated UDS, hailing the team’s perseverance, unity and discipline. Sports Minister Kofi Adams praised Coach Ibrahim Tanko and his players, noting: “You promised and you have delivered. You represented Ghana and Africa well.”
The triumph builds on UDS’s continental success, having won the 2024 Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games in Lagos, where they beat co-hosts UNILAG 3-0 to qualify for the world stage in China.
