Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education have become the first team to reach the semi-finals of the maiden OneDosh Imo State Unity Cup after defeating the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences 3-1 in the tournament opener.
The quarter-final clash, played at the Alvan School Field on Wednesday, marked the official start of the competition, which is aimed at promoting youth development, unity and grassroots football in Imo State.
AIFUE dominated much of the first half and took the lead in the 33rd minute through Peter Marcel, who tapped home after a well-worked attacking move.
The hosts doubled their advantage just four minutes later when Nwosu Chinedu calmly finished to make it 2-0 heading into the break.
UAES returned for the second half with renewed determination and pulled one back in the 59th minute through Uche Smart, briefly sparking hopes of a comeback.
However, substitute Ohanaka Marcus ended any hopes of a UAES revival when he restored AIFUE’s two-goal cushion in the 68th minute with a composed finish. The hosts comfortably saw out the remainder of the game to seal a deserved 3-1 victory and the first semi-final ticket.
Beyond the football, the opening ceremony showcased the growing profile of the competition, attracting government officials and stakeholders in sports development across the state.
The tournament is the brainchild of Engineer Ugochukwu Obinna Egbunine and is sponsored by OneDosh, a global finance app, in partnership with the Imo State Ministry of Sports. Organisers say the initiative is designed to empower young people and create opportunities for emerging football talents.
Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Obinna Onyeocha, performed the ceremonial kick-off, while Commissioner for Youth and Talent Hunt Development, Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, senior officials of the Ministry of Sports and former lawmaker Uju Onwudiwe were also in attendance.
Attention now turns to Thursday’s second quarter-final, where Imo State University will take on Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University at the Alvan School Field as the race for the remaining semi-final spots continues.
