UDS Make History as First African Champions of FISU University World Cup Football
The University for Development Studies (UDS) etched its name into global football history on Sunday after defeating Brazil’s Paulista University 2-1 in a dramatic finale to claim the 2025 FISU University World Cup Football crown.
The final in Jinjiang, China, brought together the Tamale-based side and the reigning champions from Brazil in a clash that lived up to its billing. Paulista University struck first, capitalising on their tournament pedigree to take an early lead and pile pressure on the Ghanaians.
But UDS showed remarkable grit. Despite being second-best for large spells, particularly in the second half, they kept their belief alive. Their persistence was rewarded in stoppage time when they grabbed a dramatic leveller that forced the contest into extra time.
The added 30 minutes were fiercely contested, with both sides pushing for a winner to avoid the lottery of penalties. Just when the match seemed destined for a shootout, UDS struck again. A late corner kick was bundled home in the dying seconds, sparking jubilant celebrations as they sealed a historic 2-1 victory.
By dethroning the Brazilian giants, UDS not only clinched their maiden global title but also became the first African university ever to lift the prestigious FISU University World Cup trophy — a milestone achievement for Ghana and the continent.
The triumph crowns a fairytale campaign for UDS, whose resilience, determination, and fighting spirit carried them all the way to continental and now global glory.
