The 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games witnessed a seismic shift in fortunes on Wednesday as the OAU Giants, long regarded as favorites, suffered a stunning exit in the men’s category. Their defeat, in a penalty shootout against UNILESA, has left fans and players grappling with disappointment in a tournament marked by fierce rivalries and unexpected twists.

The day had begun on a high note for Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), with their women’s team delivering a commanding 4-0 victory over Oduduwa University Ladies. Star forward Toyinbo Timilehin was the standout performer, netting all four goals in a display of pure class and clinical finishing.

 

Toyinbo opened the scoring with a sublime free kick in the 12th minute and completed her hat-trick by the 70th minute, leaving spectators and opponents in awe. Her unrelenting determination and precision secured a place for the OAU Ladies in the semi-finals and reinforced their position as tournament favorites.

Meanwhile, another women’s fixture saw COHT Moro Ladies hold UNILESA Ladies to a hard-fought 1-1 draw, keeping fans on edge as the semi-final lineup began to take shape.

The euphoria surrounding the OAU Ladies’ triumph quickly turned to heartbreak as the men’s team faced a resolute UNILESA side. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, the match ended goalless after regulation time, forcing a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

 

In the end, UNILESA emerged victorious, edging OAU 6-5 in penalties. The tension on the field was palpable, and when the final penalty hit the back of the net, it silenced the OAU bench, leaving players and fans in disbelief.

 

The shock elimination of the OAU men’s team, a powerhouse with a storied history in collegiate football, has opened the tournament for other contenders to seize their moment of glory.

Elsewhere, Oscotech Esa-Oke secured a gritty 2-1 win over Oduduwa University, showcasing resilience and determination to book their place in the next stage of the competition.

With Wednesday’s drama in the rearview mirror, the focus now shifts to the quarter-finals at the Federal Polytechnic Ede Sports Complex. The matchups promise intense competition:

• Federal Polytechnic Ede vs. Redeemer’s University (10 am–12 pm)

• Adeleke University vs. OSPOLY, Iree (12 pm–2 pm)

These games are more than just football matches; they are battles for pride, supremacy, and the coveted title.

On Saturday, the spotlight will return to the women’s category, with two thrilling semi-finals scheduled at the OAU Sports Complex in Ile-Ife:

• Federal Polytechnic Ede vs. COHT Moro (8:30 am–10 am)

• OAU Ladies vs. UNIOSUN Ladies (10 am–12 pm)

Toyinbo Timilehin and her teammates face a tough challenge against UNIOSUN, a team that has proven their mettle throughout the tournament. Federal Polytechnic Ede’s clash with COHT Moro is also expected to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams aim to capitalize on their momentum.

With the OAU men’s team out of contention, the path to glory is now wide open. Teams like UNILESA, Federal Polytechnic Ede, and Oscotech Esa-Oke will be looking to capitalize on this opportunity. Meanwhile, in the women’s category, all eyes will be on whether Toyinbo can inspire OAU Ladies to the title or if a surprise contender will emerge.

The 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games have been a rollercoaster of emotions, embodying the unpredictability and excitement that make collegiate sports so captivating. As the tournament heads into its decisive stages, fans can expect more drama, brilliance, and unforgettable moments.

In the end, only those who dare to seize the moment will etch their names in history. For now, the stage is set for an epic conclusion to a tournament that has already delivered so much.