By Kwame Bediako
First batch of the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team has arrived in Ghana after making history at the 2025 FISU World University Games.
The contingent touched down at the Kotoka International Airport on Thursday, October 2, 2025, to a warm welcome from fans, family members, and officials.
Among the first to arrive were team captain Mohammed Sulemana and head coach Ibrahim Tanko, who guided the team to the historic victory.
UDS etched their name in the record books by defeating defending champions Paulista University of Brazil 2-1 in extra time to win the prestigious 2025 FISU World University Football Cup.
The victory marks the first time an African university has lifted the coveted title, earning widespread praise from across the continent.
Speaking to the media on arrival, captain Mohammed Sulemana described the triumph as a dream come true. “The pressure on us to deliver for UDS and Africa was so much that we were just focused to make it,” he said.
Coach Ibrahim Tanko credited the players’ discipline and hard work for their success, adding that the achievement is a milestone for university football in Ghana.
The remaining members of the victorious team are expected to arrive in Ghana on Sunday, September 5, 2026. Preparations are underway for an official reception to honor the players and technical team for their outstanding performance on the global stage.
UDS’ victory at the FISU World University Games has sparked celebrations across the country, with many hailing the team’s achievement as an inspiration for youth development in sports. The win is seen as a testament to Ghana’s growing potential in nurturing world-class talent through academic and sporting excellence.
