The football quarter-finals of the 27th NUGA Games (UNIJOS 2025) produced breathtaking moments and dramatic finishes as Ekiti State University (EKSU), Kaduna State University (KASU), Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA), and Taraba State University (TSU) all secured their spots in the semi-finals after a series of intense matches that kept fans at the edge of their seats.
In one of the most dramatic encounters of the day, EKSU triumphed over University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) in a gripping penalty shootout that ended 3–1 in favor of the Ekiti-based side. The match, filled with defensive grit and midfield battles, saw both teams unable to break the deadlock in regular time, leading to penalties where EKSU showed remarkable composure to clinch victory.
The win earned EKSU a ticket to the semi-finals, where they are set to face Kaduna State University (KASU), who themselves edged past Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in another tense penalty shootout. KASU’s goalkeeper was the hero of the day, pulling off two crucial saves that ensured their advancement to the next round.
In another quarter-final face-off, FUTMINNA stunned University of Ibadan (UI) with a narrow 2–1 victory. The FUTMINNA squad demonstrated exceptional pace and attacking flair, taking control early in the game and maintaining their advantage despite UI’s late pressure. The victory set up an exciting semi-final clash between FUTMINNA and Taraba State University (TSU).
TSU, on the other hand, displayed clinical finishing in their game against Lagos State University (LASU), securing a convincing win to book their semi-final ticket. Their performance was marked by solid teamwork and well-coordinated attacking plays that overwhelmed LASU’s defense throughout the match.
The men’s semi-final fixtures are now confirmed: Ekiti State University (EKSU) will battle Kaduna State University (KASU), while Taraba State University (TSU) will face Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA). Both matches are expected to be fiercely contested as the teams fight for a coveted spot in the grand finale of the NUGA 2025 football event.
Meanwhile, the women’s football category also delivered exciting quarter-final results. University of Lagos (UNILAG) dominated their match against Ambrose Alli University (AAU), winning convincingly 3–0 to advance to the semi-finals. The UNILAG Queens’ disciplined play and sharp finishing left little room for error, showcasing their readiness for the next stage.
They will now meet Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), who overcame Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU) with a tight 1–0 victory. The match was a tactical showdown that highlighted UNIZIK’s defensive resilience and ability to capitalize on crucial chances.
In another thrilling female encounter, Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) demolished Bayero University Kano (BUK) with an impressive 6–0 scoreline, marking one of the largest victories of the tournament. The FUOYE ladies were dominant from start to finish, demonstrating technical brilliance and superior coordination on the pitch.
FUOYE will now lock horns with University of Jos (UNIJOS) in what promises to be a highly charged semi-final showdown. With UNIJOS enjoying the advantage of home support, the battle for a place in the finals will no doubt test both teams’ strength, skill, and strategy.
As the competition intensifies, the NUGA 2025 Games continue to spotlight Nigeria’s rising university talents and the spirit of sportsmanship across campuses. The Nigeria Education News, reporting live from Jos, remains committed to bringing readers full updates and behind-the-scenes stories from this thrilling national event.
