Teams UI and UNICAL in action during their group-stage match at the 27th NUGA Games
The University of Jos male football team bounced back from their opening defeat to Taraba State University with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Benue State University (BSU) in their second group-stage match of the ongoing 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA).
Winger David Austin, wearing the No. 7 jersey, netted the decisive goal in the 51st minute of the second half, restoring confidence among the UNIJOS camp after their earlier loss. The Highlanders displayed renewed energy and tactical discipline throughout the encounter, holding off late pressure from BSU to secure their first win of the tournament.
Speaking after the match, UNIJOS team captain Mendez Amila described the contest as a tough one but credited teamwork and determination for the result. “The match was tougher than yesterday’s, but we learned from that experience and reshaped our play. We came ready to win, gave everything, and grace helped us,” he said.
“I want Josites to keep believing in the UNIJOS Highlanders. We did not intend to disappoint them yesterday. Please do not give up on us — we are coming back stronger,” he stated.
Match observer Adams Abel noted that UNIJOS had the upper hand in the first half but failed to convert early chances. “UNIJOS dominated the first 45 minutes and created several clear-cut opportunities, but their finishing was poor. BSU, however, showed impressive defensive organisation,” he observed.
On his part, BSU captain Edward Ruddy admitted that conceding early in the second half unsettled his side. “That goal broke our momentum. We lost concentration and could not bounce back. But it is football — you win some, you lose some,” he said. “We respected UNIJOS despite their earlier loss, and we will return stronger in our next match.”
Campulse News gathered that BSU lost 1–0 to FUT Minna in their last match.
The final whistle sparked jubilation among UNIJOS supporters, who celebrated the team’s much-needed victory.
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