The University of Jos (UNIJOS) female football team began their 2025 Nigerian University Games (NUGA) campaign on a winning note — but without kicking a ball — after their opponents, the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), failed to show up for their opening group-stage match.
The fixture, billed for the Federal College of Forestry pitch, was meant to mark the first outing for both sides. However, while UNIJOS and match officials arrived early and completed all pre-match formalities, FUL was nowhere to be found even an hour after the scheduled kick-off time.
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Following due process and in line with NUGA football regulations, the match officials officially awarded a walkover victory to UNIJOS, granting them three points and a +3 goal advantage.
Speaking to the media, UNIJOS head coach Mohammed Dauda confirmed that his team followed all matchday procedures.
“We arrived earlier than scheduled and waited for hours without seeing our opponents,” Dauda said. “The referee completed all formalities and declared the match a walkover. Our focus now shifts to the next fixture. The girls are ready and confident.”
Team captain Patience Moses shared mixed feelings over the outcome.
“It’s disappointing that we couldn’t play,” she said. “We really wanted to test our fitness and teamwork. The points are good, but we hope our next match goes as planned.”
A NUGA female football coordinator confirmed that FUL representatives attended the pre-tournament technical meeting and were fully aware of their schedule.
“We found only the UNIJOS team at the venue,” she stated. “After the required waiting period, we followed the rules and reported to the NUGA organising committee, which approved the walkover.”
With the three points secured, UNIJOS now lead their group standings and will aim to continue their momentum when they return to action in their next group-stage match.
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