Lagos State University captain Ahemed Malik has declared that the defending champions are fully prepared to retain the UNITECOL Cup 2026 title ahead of their highly anticipated final showdown against Lagos State University of Education.
The LASU Blazers, winners of the maiden edition of the competition last year, have once again demonstrated consistency and resilience throughout the tournament to secure a place in the final.
Speaking ahead of the decisive encounter, Malik expressed confidence in the team’s ability to successfully defend the title, stressing that the motivation comes from both passion for the game and the legacy established by former players of the institution.
“What motivates us the most is the love of the game and what our predecessors have laid down for us to remain on top. Again, the name LASU itself sounds challenging,” Malik told Sportxvibe.com.ng.
“It’s not pressure, but I don’t think LASU is ready to let go of the cup yet. It will be challenging, but by God’s grace, we will get the victory.”
LASU’s Journey to the Final
Lagos State University entered the tournament as defending champions and lived up to expectations during the group stage.
The Blazers topped Group A after an impressive campaign that showcased defensive solidity and attacking discipline. Their performances secured an early qualification into the knockout stage, where they maintained composure to book another final appearance.
Malik has been instrumental in the team’s success, providing leadership and stability from the group stage through to the knockout rounds.
LASUED’s Remarkable Rise
Lagos State University of Education have emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament after an inspiring journey to the final.
LASUED showed tremendous fighting spirit during the group phase, including a dramatic comeback victory over Federal College of Education Akoka after coming from two goals down to win 3-2.
The result proved decisive in securing their qualification into the knockout stage, where they continued their impressive form to earn a historic place in the final.
Their resilience and attacking mentality have made them one of the standout teams of UNITECOL 2026.
UNILAG and Yaba Tech Set for Third-Place Playoff
Before the final, University of Lagos and Yaba College of Technology will battle for third place in what is expected to be another thrilling contest.
UNILAG impressed during the group stage by finishing top of Group B, while Yaba Tech advanced from Group A after defeating Federal College of Marine and Fisheries Technology 2-0 to secure qualification into the knockout rounds.
With the competition nearing its climax, attention will now shift to whether LASU can successfully defend their crown or if LASUED can complete their remarkable fairytale run by lifting the UNITECOL 2026 trophy for the first time.