NUGA 2025 Football Quarter-Finals: Thrills, Goals, and Semi-Final Fixtures

NUGA 2025 Football Quarter-Finals: Thrills, Goals, and Semi-Final Fixtures

The quarter-final stage of the men’s football event at the 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA 2025) lived up to expectations, producing drama, shock results, and breathtaking finishes across all four fixtures at the University of Jos.

From goalkeeping heroics to controversial calls, the knockout round proved that there are no easy games in university football. Here’s how the action unfolded.

Game 1: UNIMAID 0–0 EKSU (Penalties: 1–3)

It was a tense encounter between University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and Ekiti State University (EKSU), with both sides failing to find the net after regulation time.

The defining moment came during the penalty shootout, where EKSU’s goalkeeper, Bankole Tamilore turned hero, saving three consecutive spot-kicks to send the South-Westerners into the semifinals. His calmness under pressure ensured EKSU’s 3–1 shootout triumph, earning them one of the most dramatic wins of the tournament so far.

EKSU has been remarkably consistent and now stands as the sole representative of the South-West region. With strong backing from other South-Western schools, they’ve become the dark horses of the tournament — a team many are beginning to watch closely.

Game 2: LASU 1–4 Taraba University

The surprise of the day came in this fixture, as Taraba State University stunned Lagos State University (LASU) with a commanding 4–1 victory.

The Tarabans dominated proceedings, converting their chances clinically and leaving LASU’s defence exposed on multiple occasions. The scoreline reflected Taraba’s hunger and tactical discipline as they booked their place in the final four.

They may not have started as one of the favourites, but after their impressive victory over LASU, Taraba State University has certainly captured the attention of football fans across the country.

Game 3: KASU 1–1 FUTA (Full-Time)

FUTA (Federal University of Technology, Akure) and Kaduna State University (KASU) battled fiercely in what became the most heated contest of the round.

FUTA struck first through Abiodun Ahmed, before Justice Augustine equalised deep into stoppage time (90+4). However, controversy marred the encounter, as the equalising goal came from a free-kick that KASU players claimed was unfairly awarded.

The match ended 5-4 on penalties with KASU sealing their progression to the semifinals. The final whistle saw tempers flare, with FUTA players struggling to keep their cool amid the protests.

Controversy Corner: Questions remain about the referee’s decision that led to the free-kick, sparking debate about officiating consistency in the tournament.

Match coverage by our on-site correspondent, Gomina of Abuja.

Game 4: FUTMINNA 2–1 University of Ibadan (UI)

In another nail-biting encounter, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) edged past University of Ibadan (UI) 2–1 to complete the semifinal lineup.

Both teams displayed solid technical play, but FUTMINNA’s efficiency in front of goal made the difference. Despite UI’s late push, FUTMINNA held firm to secure a well-earned victory and a spot in the final four.

Men’s Football Semifinalists Confirmed

After an explosive quarter-final round, the four teams advancing to the semifinals are:

EKSU (Ekiti State University)
Taraba State University
Kaduna State University (KASU)
FUTMINNA (Federal University of Technology, Minna)

Women’s Football Quarter-Finals: UNILAG, UNIZIK, UNIJOS and FUOYE March On

The women’s football quarter-finals delivered dominant performances, with several universities asserting themselves on the path to the semifinals.

UNILAG 3–0 AAU (Walkover): University of Lagos (UNILAG) advanced automatically after Ambrose Alli University (AAU) failed to show up.
UNIZIK 1–0 MOUAU: Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) secured a hard-fought victory over Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU).
UNIJOS 2–0 UNIOSUN: Host University of Jos (UNIJOS) confirmed their semifinal spot with a 2–0 win over Osun State University (UNIOSUN).
FUOYE 6–0 BUK: Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) showcased attacking firepower in a 6–0 thrashing of Bayero University, Kano (BUK).

Quick Take: The women’s tournament has been just as thrilling as the men’s, with UNILAG, UNIZIK, UNIJOS, and FUOYE advancing to the semifinals. Expect high-intensity matches and impressive goals in the next round.

With four formidable teams left for both the men and women’s football, the stage is set for an unforgettable semifinal showdown in Jos.

Semi-Finals Fixtures

Male Category

Match No. 29: KASU vs EKSU
Venue: Main Campus
Time: 10:00 AM
Match No. 30: Taraba State University vs FUTMINNA
Venue: Seminary
Time: 10:00 AM

Female Category

Match No. 29: UNIJOS vs FUOYE
Venue: Forestry
Time: 10:00 AM
Match No. 30: UNILAG vs UNIZIK
Venue: Seminary
Time: 10:00 AM