Over five weeks, ten teams battled for supremacy, showcasing talent, resilience, and passion. This first edition of the Varsity Cup wasn’t just about football—it was about student-athletes writing their names in history.

The competition featured ten universities from across Nigeria, each bringing their A-game. From the footballing giants of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to the rising forces of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM) and Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba (PAAU), every match was a testament to the skill and determination of Nigeria’s next generation of football stars.

After eighteen matches filled with top-tier football, JOSTUM emerged as the first-ever Varsity Cup champions, defeating UNILORIN in the final. UNN secured third place, proving their dominance throughout the tournament. The champions didn’t just lift a trophy; they cemented their place in history.

Varsity Cup 2024 was a platform for student-athletes to shine, and several players delivered standout performances. Jacob Targema of JOSTUM stole the show, winning both Player of the Tournament and Best Goalkeeper. Amodu Unite (JOSTUM) and Chiezie Henry (UNN) emerged as the top scorers, each netting five goals. 

Beyond these individual awards, eighteen players were recognized as Stars of the Match, proving the depth of talent in the competition.

The intensity of the tournament was evident in the numbers. A total of 48 goals were scored, averaging 2.67 goals per match.

Defenses held firm, but the passion of the competition also led to 48 yellow cards and three red cards, underscoring the high stakes of every fixture.

Looking ahead, Varsity Cup 2025 is set to be even bigger. The tournament will now include a women’s competition, giving female student-athletes their well-deserved place in the spotlight. The next edition will feature a total of 24 matches across two competitions, further solidifying Varsity Cup as Nigeria’s premier university football tournament.