George Renchi of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana, delivered a spectacular volley to secure a 1-0 win over the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Marines in a gripping opening match of the 11th FASU Games.
The Group B opener, held at the University of Lagos Sports Center, saw the visiting UDS team make a strong start, igniting excitement among the spectators.
However, UNILAG soon found their rhythm, dominating possession through fluid midfield play, as they applied pressure on the Ghanaian side.
UNILAG had a golden opportunity to take the lead after a UDS player was penalized for a handball, resulting in a penalty for the hosts.
All hopes rested on striker Doyin Omotosho, who stepped up to take the spot-kick, however, his effort was brilliantly saved by the UDS goalkeeper, keeping the match level.
Both teams continued to press for a breakthrough, with UDS launching several attacks, though none found the back of the net before halftime, leaving the score 0-0 at the break.
In the second half, UDS returned with renewed determination, pushing aggressively for a goal.
UNILAG nearly took the lead when Samuel, one of their key players, dribbled past a UDS defender, but his shot flew wide of the target.
As the game progressed, UDS began to dominate, showcasing their technical skill and creativity.
Their efforts finally paid off when George Renchi unleashed a stunning volley from just outside the midfield, catching the UNILAG goalkeeper off guard and sending the ball into the net.
The goal left both the crowd and the opposing team stunned.
The match concluded with a 1-0 victory for UDS.
Renchi Eyes FASU Title
Speaking to Sportsvibe.com.ng, Renchi expressed his excitement over scoring the winning goal and shared his team’s ambition to win the tournament.
Reflecting on UDS’ third-place finish at the previous edition in Kenya, he said, “We finished third two years ago, and this year, we’re determined to go even further. I’m thrilled to have scored that goal—I saw the keeper was slightly off his line and decided to go for it.”
With their first win in the bag, UDS are determined to build on this momentum as the tournament progresses.