JOSTUM Wins 2024 Varsity Cup as Unilorin, UNN Get Silver, Bronze

In a thrilling conclusion to the maiden edition of the Varsity Cup, Joseph Sarwuan Tarkaa University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), formerly the Federal University of Makurdi emerged as champions after defeating the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) in a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout. 

The match, held at the mainbowl of the University of Benin Sports Complex, ended in a 1-1 draw in regulation time, setting the stage for an intense finale that will go down in the history of collegiate sports in Nigeria. 

Three penalty saves from JOSTUM’s star goalkeeper, Jacob Targema, not only guaranteed the coveted Varsity Cup for his team but also cemented his place as the Player of the Tournament and Best Goalkeeper.  

JOSTUM’s road to glory began in the group stage, where they showcased their dominance with victories over Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU) and Prince Abubakar Audu University, Ayangba (formerly Kogi State University), alongside a hard-fought draw against eventual finalists Unilorin.

In the semifinals, JOSTUM defeated Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU) on their home turf in Makurdi, and a subsequent draw in Ile-Ife sealed their place in the final. 

The grand finale saw them once again face their Group B rivals, Unilorin, in a match that tested the resilience and skill of both teams. 

Speaking after the final, Olamide Adeyemo, CEO of Varsity Cup, expressed his delight at the tournament’s success. 

“Our joy at Varsity Cup is not just the successful completion of this maiden edition but the proof that we can achieve this and make it sustainable every year. To our technical partners, NUGA, and our brand sponsors and partners, Moniepoint and Minimie, we are deeply grateful for your unwavering support throughout this journey.”

The thrilling final and the overall success of the Varsity Cup 2024 has reinforced its status as a premier platform for showcasing Nigeria’s brightest student-athletes.