The University for Development Studies (UDS) of Ghana has etched its name into world football history after defeating Spain’s Granada University in a tense penalty shootout to reach the finals of the 2025 FISU Universities World Football Tournament in Dalian, China.

In a match charged with intensity, nerves, and drama, the two sides battled to a goalless draw in regulation time before UDS triumphed 5 - 4 on penalties, thanks largely to the heroics of goalkeeper Emmanuel Edo.

From the onset, both teams played cautiously but with intensity, probing for openings while maintaining defensive discipline. Granada threatened first in the 19th minute, forcing Edo into a smart save. The Spaniards pressed again before halftime, but Edo’s sharp reflexes denied them.

UDS had their chances too, notably from Zakaria Alhassan’s free-kick in the 42nd minute and skipper Asigre Mohammed’s fierce long-range strike early in the second half. Substitutions by coach Ibrahim Tanko, including the introduction of Habilu Abukari and Ibrahim Salifu, added energy, but Ghana’s forwards could not find the breakthrough.

The game’s most heart-stopping moment came in the 70th minute when Granada rattled the UDS post, sending shockwaves through the Ghanaian bench. But once again, Edo stood tall, pulling off back-to-back saves in the 76th minute to keep his side alive.

With the match goalless after 90 minutes, the drama shifted to penalties. UDS displayed composure under immense pressure, converting five of their six spot kicks. Edo turned into the night’s undisputed hero, saving two Spanish penalties to hand UDS a historic 5 - 4 victory.

The win sparked wild celebrations from the Ghanaian contingent, with players dancing, kneeling in prayer, and embracing in tears of joy. The victory marks the first time a Ghanaian university has reached the final of a global football competition, drawing parallels with the Black Satellites’ FIFA U-20 World Cup triumph in 2009.

UDS will now face reigning champions Paulista University of Brazil on Sunday, September 28, 2025, in what promises to be a blockbuster final. Victory there would complete a remarkable fairytale run and place UDS among the global powerhouses of university football.