The Matchday 1 of the female edition of the Seals Cup didn’t disappoint—it delivered action, intensity, and a healthy dose of drama. Aside from the opening game between the defending champions and HKE, all of this year’s female Seals Cup games will be held at the legendary Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall Maracana. From stunning goals to controversial calls, here’s a full roundup of all the matches played in Matchday One across all four groups.
GROUP A
ASSE vs. Human Kinetics
The curtain-raiser match was one for the books. Covered by UIMSA Press, it lived up to the hype with both teams bringing energy and determination. Both teams played fearlessly and had to settle for a 2-2 draw. The gameplay set the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.
Statistics vs. LARIS
This was the match that stirred up the most buzz—and not just for the football. LARIS struck first, but Statistics mounted a comeback that turned the tide. However, controversy loomed large. There were allegations of biased refereeing by supporters of the LARIS team in giving a debatable free kick and penalty— which resulted in both goals for Statistics —because the referee for the game was said to be from the department of Statistics. This calls into question the judgement of the organising committee in fixing a student from the department of statistics to referee in a game in which Statistics was involved. Some spectators felt LARIS should’ve protested more strongly or even postponed play until the officiating issue was addressed. Still, the match concluded with heated debates ringing louder than the final whistle.
GROUP B
MBBS vs. Law
This clash between last year’s finalists and the ladies from the department of justice did not disappoint. MBBS took the lead before halftime with a composed finish by Laura, their new signing, but Law refused to go down without a fight. Grace came through with a well-taken equalizer late in the game, ensuring the game ended 1-1. Both teams showed flashes of brilliance, setting up what could be a tightly contested group. It is important to note that MBBS femeni are without stargirl Eseosa in this year’s competition. It will be interesting to see how far they can go without her.
Physiotherapy vs. Forestry
Another evenly matched contest, this one also ended in a draw. Rasheedat’s early goal gave Physio the edge, but Forestry replied before the break with a quick equalizer. Despite chances at both ends in the second half, neither side could find the winning goal. A fair result—but one that leaves both teams hungry for more as all four teams in the group are level with one point each.
GROUP C
Archaeology & Anthropology vs. Sociology
Kemi. The standout performer of the day, Kemi netted a brilliant brace to give her department a commanding win over Sociology. Her performance was exceptional, as she led her team to victory. A strong start for Archaeology & Anthropology, and a statement to the rest of the group.
Environmental Health Science (E.H.S) vs. Microbiology
This fixture didn’t kick off at all. Microbiology failed to show up, handing E.H.S a 3-0 walkover victory. Not the way any team wants to win, but E.H.S will take the points and the boost to their goal difference.
GROUP D
Philosophy vs. Pharmacy
Arguably the most entertaining game of Matchday one. Philosophy flew out of the gates, taking a 2–0 lead into halftime thanks to sharp finishes from Heritage and Anwuli. In the second half, Anjola and Gloria piled on more goals, showcasing Philosophy’s attacking prowess. Pharmacy managed a late consolation through Kesh, but the match belonged to Philosophy. With a 4-1, they have announced themselves as serious contenders.
History vs. Computer Science
This match couldn’t quite live up to the others in terms of excitement. Both teams were solid defensively, but lacked the creativity in the final third. The 0–0 draw leaves both sides with work to do if they hope to progress from the group stage.
Final Thoughts: Matchday One had it all; drama, brilliance, and surprises. From Kemi’s heroics to the heated moments in the Statistics vs. LARIS game, this year’s female Seals Cup is already delivering memorable moments. With plenty of action still to come, fans can expect even more intensity as the group stage unfolds.Stay tuned.
Mohammad Oluwatimilehin.
