The University for Development Studies (UDS) Football Team stepped up preparations for the upcoming 2025 Universities World Cup in China with an impressive 3–1 victory over Division One side, Northern City, at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium on Friday, August 29, 2025.

In what turned out to be an entertaining encounter filled with end-to-end action, the UDS lads showed grit, creativity, and attacking flair against their opponents. From the blast of the whistle, the boys in green and white pressed forward, determined to make a statement ahead of their historic journey to represent both Ghana and Africa on the world stage.

Their intent paid off early. In the 20th minute, Gerrard Akuoku stunned the crowd with a clinical finish after a brilliant team move, sending UDS into a deserved lead. Just five minutes later, Ezedeen Alhassan who is well remembered for being crowned goal king at last year’s FASU Games in Lagos, Nigeria, proved why he remains a menace to defenders, doubling the advantage with a composed strike that sent the stadium into raptures.

However, Northern City showed resilience. Against the run of play, they capitalized on a costly error by UDS goalkeeper Edo Emmanuel in the 45th minute, pulling one back to end the first half at 2–1. That mistake left the UDS technical bench with much to ponder as the teams headed into the tunnel.

The second half was a battle of nerves and tactics. UDS kept probing for a third goal, but Northern City defended deep, hoping to snatch an equalizer. The tension grew as the minutes ticked away. Yet, the persistence of the university side eventually paid off in the dying moments. In the 89th minute, Zakaria Alhassan broke through the weary Northern City defense and coolly slotted home to seal a 3–1 win for UDS, sparking wild celebrations from the players and supporters.

After the match, the Director of Sports at UDS, together with the coaching and technical team, commended the players for their fighting spirit but emphasized the need to minimize defensive errors and sharpen their goal-scoring instincts ahead of the World Cup challenge.

The victory comes at a crucial time as UDS intensifies preparations for the 2025 Universities World Cup, scheduled to take place later this year in China. The tournament will bring together top university teams from across the globe, offering a rare opportunity for Ghana’s UDS to showcase African football talent on a global platform.

With such a confident display against a tough Division One opponent, UDS has sent a clear signal of intent: they are ready to fly the flag of Ghana and Africa high when the whistle blows in China.

Story by: Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media