The much-anticipated competition organized by Varsity Cup kicked off on Tuesday with intense action in Group A, hosted at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) Main Bowl.

The stakes were high as teams from some of Nigeria’s finest institutions faced off in a series of games that promised to spotlight the future of Nigerian football talent.

As we conclude the matches for group A, here is how the teams have fared in their quest for Semi-final qualification.

Day 1: OAU Dominance and a Shaky Start for UNIBEN

The competition began on Tuesday, 15th October, with UNIBEN taking on the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) men’s team in the opening fixture. Expectations were high for the host team but the OAU Giants came in well-prepared and they executed a clinical performance to secure a 3-1 victory.

The westerners’ swift counter-attacks and solid defensive structure left UNIBEN struggling to keep pace in what turned out to be a disappointing result for the home crowd.

In the second match of the day, Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba (AAUA) locked horns with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) men’s team. AAUA put up a valiant effort but narrowly lost 2-1, with UNN showing tactical discipline and capitalizing on AAUA’s defensive lapses. The loss left AAUA with much to ponder as they headed into the next day’s matches.

Day 2: UNN and OAU Push Ahead

Wednesday, 16th October, saw UNIBEN face their second test against the formidable UNN men’s team. Despite home advantage, UNIBEN struggled to break down a resolute UNN defense and suffered a 3-0 defeat.

UNN’s strong midfield and organized backline proved too much for UNIBEN whose attack lacked the organization and clinicality required to pose a real threat. The loss compounded UNIBEN’s struggles, leaving them with no points after two games.

Meanwhile, OAU continued their impressive form, securing a comfortable 2-0 win over AAUA. OAU’s blend of attacking flair and defensive discipline was on full display, with their wingers exploiting AAUA’s vulnerabilities on the flanks.

Day 3: The Final Push

For the final set of matches for group A, UNIBEN faced AAUA in a dead rubber clash, hoping to salvage some pride. Despite a determined effort, UNIBEN fell short yet again, losing 2-1. AAUA, having learned from their previous defeats, tightened their defense and seized the limited opportunities they had to earn their first win of the tournament.

UNN, on the other hand, faced OAU in what was an highly anticipated contest. However, OAU’s consistent form shone through as they registered a solid 2-0 victory, marking their third consecutive win of the week. OAU’s ability to control the tempo of the game combined with their tactical versatility made them the team to beat in Group A.

The Teams So Far: A Tactical Breakdown

OAU has emerged as the standout team of the group. They have demonstrated tactical superiority and an ability to adapt to different styles of play. Characterized by their swift transitions from defense to attack coupled with disciplined defending and they have earned themselves an 100% record in group A.

UNN, although less flamboyant have relied on their solid defensive foundation to grind out victories. Their ability to absorb pressure and hit teams on the counter has proven effective particularly against AAUA and UNIBEN.

AAUA having suffered two loses in their first two games will take solace in a win against UNIBEN. Their weaknesses lie in defensive coordination, but they’ve shown promise with their high work rate and pressing game.

As for UNIBEN, the host team struggled to find its rhythm in all group stage games. A lack of cohesion in attack and vulnerability in defense have been their undoing in their group stage matches. Their lacklustre performance condemns them to an early exit from the tournament.

With OAU and UNN already in the Semi-finals, next week all eyes will be on the teams in group B as we get to find out which teams will progress to complete the final four.