The Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024 roared to life on Tuesday, November 26, with thrilling football matches that left spectators in awe. The day delivered a spectacle of skill, resilience, and high-stakes competition as both male and female teams fought for glory on the lush pitches of Osun State.
UniOsun's women team set the tone with a commanding 7-0 victory over Redeemers University. The star of the match, Ariyo Olateju, was unstoppable, scoring an impressive hat trick that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Her dazzling footwork, clinical finishes, and relentless drive embodied UniOsun’s spirit and determination to dominate the game.
The team's cohesive play and tactical discipline left their opponents reeling and established UniOsun as a formidable force in the women category.
Over at the men's games, Federal Polytechnic Ede delivered a masterclass performance, demolishing FUHSI with an emphatic 7-0 victory. Rasheed Kehinde stole the show with four electrifying goals, showcasing his knack for finding the back of the net with precision and flair. His blistering pace and razor-sharp instincts kept FUHSI’s defense on their heels throughout the match.
Meanwhile, OSPOLY Iree stunned Fountain University with a convincing 4-1 win, demonstrating superior tactical prowess and teamwork. In a more tactical encounter, UniOsun and Redeemers University played out a tense 0-0 stalemate, highlighting the defensive solidity and strategic acumen of both sides.
In the first Quarter Finals of the Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024, Obafemi Awolowo University Giants, Group B leaders, will face University of Ilesa, Group D runner-up. OAU comes into this match with a reputation for relentless attacking football. However, the University of Ilesa’s gritty underdog spirit could spring a surprise.
OSCOTECH Esa-Oke, Group D toppers will face either College of education Moro or Oduduwa University, depending on the verdict from the Technical and Accreditation committees.
With each passing day, the Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024 continue to captivate fans and showcase the extraordinary talents of student-athletes across the state. The journey to ultimate glory is far from over, and as the quarterfinals loom, only the strongest will survive in this fiercely competitive tournament.