Teams UI and UNICAL in action during their group-stage match at the 27th NUGA Games
The University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Calabar (UNICAL) settled for a goalless draw in their keenly contested qualifying match at the ongoing 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA) in Jos.
Both sides came into the fixture on the back of impressive opening victories — UNICAL had defeated Usmanu Danfodiyo University 2–0, while UI recorded an identical 2–0 win over Lagos State University, setting the stage for what proved to be a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams.
From the blast of the whistle, the game was intense, with both teams showing tactical discipline and solid defensive organisation. UNICAL dominated the early exchanges, pressing high and forcing UI to defend deep for much of the opening 20 minutes. However, the Ibadan side gradually grew into the game, creating a few chances through quick counterattacks.
Speaking after the match, UNICAL captain Chris Odey described the result as disappointing but fair. “It was a tough contest because both teams were well prepared. At this point, a draw feels like a loss because we came for the three points,” he told Campulse News. “They mounted pressure on us early on, but we contained them and later balanced the game. Hopefully, we’ll meet them again in the finals.” He added that teamwork and faith have been the driving forces behind his team’s impressive run so far.
Football analyst David Agirdo praised both sides for their resilience, saying, “The two teams are a storm to watch out for in this competition. They played quality football and showed that they have the depth to go far.”
With the draw, both teams remain unbeaten and are well-positioned to progress from their group as the battle for NUGA football glory intensifies.
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