The Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU) is filled with immense pride as we watch our representatives, the University for Development Studies (UDS) from Ghana, make remarkable strides at the World University Football Championship in Dalian, China.
Their journey to the world stage was earned through continental triumph. UDS secured the coveted ticket to represent Africa after winning the gold medal at the FASU Games, which took place in Lagos, Nigeria, last September.
The Ghanaian champions have showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing their place in the knockout stage with an unbeaten record. Their journey began with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the University of Sharjah from the UAE, followed by a dominant 4-1 win over Spain’s Ramon Llull University.
A Message from the FASU Secretariat
The FASU Secretary General Penninah Kabenge Aligawesa extends heartfelt congratulations and encouragement to the UDS team:
“On behalf of the entire FASU family, I want to extend our warmest congratulations to the University for Development Studies. You are not just representing your university or Ghana; you are flying the flag for all of Africa. Your skill, determination, and sportsmanship have been exemplary. As you enter the crucial quarterfinal stage, know that a whole continent is cheering you on. We wish you the very best of luck. Continue to play with heart and passion, and go for the trophy!”
National Support from Ghana
The team’s success has generated a wave of support from their home country Ghana, the presidency and some key sporting bodies.
The Vice President of the Republic of Ghana congratulates the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team on their historic achievement at the FISU Football Challenge, saying: “You have made Ghana and Africa proud on the global stage. The nation stands firmly behind you. Continue to play with courage, integrity, and passion.”
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The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially congratulated the team for their outstanding performance at the ongoing World University Football Championship in China, urging them to go for the ultimate prize.
This is complemented by the strong backing of the Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA). In a significant show of leadership and support, the President of GUSA is with the team in China, serving as the Head of Delegation. His presence on the ground provides invaluable motivation and highlights the commitment of Ghana’s university sports authorities to the team’s success.
Mr. IBRAHIM SHAIBU TANKO’S LEADERSHIP
Coach Shaibu Tanko, head coach of the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team, has carved his name into history as the first coach of an African university football team to guide his side into the knockout stages of the ongoing Universities World Football Tournament in Dalian, China.
More than just a coach, Tanko wears multiple hats. He is the Director of Sports at UDS, the President of the Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA), and also leads the West Africa University Sports Federation and an Executive member of FASU
His rise to prominence on the global university sports stage is no coincidence; it is the product of decades of dedication, strategic brilliance, and a tireless commitment to developing talent from grassroots to elite levels.
Under his leadership, the UDS team, representing not only Ghana but the entire African continent, has impressed audiences and critics alike with their disciplined defending, fluid attacking transitions, and a tactical flexibility that has proven too complex for many of their group stage opponents.
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Coach Tanko’s approach combines deep technical knowledge with a keen understanding of player psychology.
His ability to read the game and make crucial in-game adjustments has earned him praise from football tacticians worldwide.
In a tournament often dominated by European and South American teams, UDS’ progression to the knockout stage is a statement of intent and a beacon of African excellence.
Speaking after securing qualification, Coach Tanko struck a composed and respectful tone. “We’re proud to have reached this stage, but we’re not getting carried away,” he said. “We take each game one at a time. We don’t underrate any team, and we certainly don’t overrate anyone. Every match is an opportunity, and we’re staying focused.”
As the knockout rounds approach, all eyes will be on Coach Tanko and his UDS side. Whether or not they lift the trophy, their place in history is already assured and African university football has found a new standard bearer on the global stage.
Having already secured their place in the quarter-finals with two dominant wins, UDS faced their sternest test yet against the reigning world champions, Paulista University of Brazil. In a stunning display of resilience and character, the African champions battled fearlessly despite being a man down. Just when it seemed they would face their first defeat, Jonas Agyemontor unleashed a spectacular long-range strike in the final minute to clinch a dramatic 1-1 draw. By holding the defending champions under such adversity and finishing the group stage unbeaten, UDS has sent a powerful message to the rest of the competition: they are not just here to participate, but are fully prepared to challenge for and win the trophy.
A Beacon of African Potential
UDS’s phenomenal run in this global competition is more than just a series of victories; it is a powerful statement about the immense talent and potential that exists within African universities. It proves that with dedication, investment, and the right platforms, our student-athletes can compete with and triumph over the very best in the world.
With about 2 more matches to make it to the podium and ultimately grab the World Cup trophy of University Sports, UDS makes it to the quarter finals finishing as group leaders of their group and they are ready to go all out for the tasks ahead.
Go UDS! Make Africa proud!