In a thrilling conclusion to the maiden edition of Varsity Cup, Joseph Sarwuan Tarkaa University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), formerly the Federal University of Makurdi emerged as champions after defeating the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) in a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout.
The match, held at the main bowl of the University of Benin Sports Complex, ended in a 1-1 draw in regulation time, setting the stage for an intense finale that will go down in the history of collegiate sports in Nigeria.
Three (3) penalty saves from JOSTUM’s star goalkeeper Jacob Targema not only guaranteed the coveted Varsity Cup for his team, but also cemented his place as the Player of the Tournament and Best Goalkeeper.
JOSTUM’s road to glory began in the group stage, where they showcased their dominance with victories over Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU) and Prince Abubakar Audu University, Ayingba (formerly Kogi State University), alongside a hard-fought draw against eventual finalists UNILORIN.
In the semifinals, JOSTUM defeated Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU) on their home turf in Makurdi, and a subsequent draw in Ile-Ife sealed their place in the final. The grand finale saw them once again face their Group B rivals, UNILORIN, in a match that tested the resilience and skill of both teams.
Speaking after the final, Olamide Adeyemo, CEO of Varsity Cup, expressed his delight at the tournament’s success.
“Our joy at Varsity Cup is not just the successful completion of this maiden edition but the proof that we can achieve this and make it sustainable every year. To our technical partners, NUGA, and our brand sponsors and partners, Moniepoint and Minimie, we are deeply grateful for your unwavering support throughout this journey.”
The thrilling final and the overall success of the Varsity Cup 2024 has reinforced its status as a premier platform for showcasing Nigeria’s brightest student-athletes.
As the Varsity Cup trophy travels to Makurdi, “The Food Basket of the Nation,” anticipation builds for 2025. The next edition promises to be even bigger, with both men’s and women’s competitions scheduled to take place simultaneously.
Varsity Cup is Nigeria’s first national university football competition pioneering gender inclusion in collegiate football. In partnership with NUGA, Varsity Cup provides a platform for young football talents to thrive, pursue excellence, and “Dream, Play, and Win Big.”
For more details on Varsity Cup 2024, including match highlights, news, and visuals, visit [www.varsitycup.org] or follow them on social media: @VarsityCupNG
