By Mahbubat Salahudeen
Morale, pride, and relevance will all be on the line when the University of Ibadan go against the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNNAB) once again, this time, in the third-place playoff of the Monieball 5-a-side football tournament.
University of Ibadan (White) vs FUNNABv(Yellow) in the group stage of the Monieball 5-a-side tournament
Both sides initially met in the group stage, which was held on Thursday, at the Awo Stadium in the University of Ibadan – a fixture that ended 2-1 in FUNNAB’s favour. Since that encounter, fortunes have shifted – UI, led by their clinical midfielder Heskeymann, edged out FUOYE by a 1-0 in the second group game of the tournament. They then fell to FUNNAB in their third group game, conceding the opener via a penalty before FUNNAB doubled the lead through open play. Mujeeb’s thunderous strike from a spot-kick restored hope for UI, but it was not enough to change the course of the game.
The results meant both sides progressed to the semi-finals with doubleheader encounters in the University of Calabar, ready to battle for a spot in the finals.
In those encounters, both teams stumbled upon defeats with FUNNAB falling to a narrow loss to the University of Ilorin 1-0, while UI suffered a heavy 3–0 defeat to the hosts. With both sides off the route to the finals, UI and FUNNAB will be looking to end their respective campaigns on a high note and secure what’s left of the good fortune in the tournament.
This encounter will most likely be a tight, tactical affair defined by composure, set pieces, and high intensity. UI, eager to avenge their earlier loss against the visitors, will come in with renewed determination. Their greatest strength lies in Heskeymann, Pamilerin, and Mujeeb – three players capable of turning the tides of the game with a combined moment of brilliance. FUNNAB, on the other hand, will look to assert their dominance once more through compact defending, swift counterattacks, and composure in the final third, with Ilori Genga – the man of the match in their match against UI – set to lead the ranks.
Their earlier victory gives them a psychological edge, but their inability to convert chances in the semi-final against the University of Ilorin could be a concern, and it does signal to their opponent that they are indeed beatable. For UI, the key will be maintaining defensive organisation; Pamilerin will be most efficient in leading that charge, which will allow Heskeymann space to exploit behind the defence. Mujeeb’s set-piece accuracy could also be crucial, especially if the team manages to force a spot kick.
FUNNAB, meanwhile, must remain disciplined, avoid unnecessary fouls around the box, capitalise on transitions, and neutralise the goalkeeper. The match is expected to start cagey, with both sides feeling each other out.
UI will likely absorb pressure early, while FUNNAB tries to establish dominance through possession and creativity. The midfield battle will most likely determine control, and whoever dictates tempo will likely control the narrative.
With revenge and redemption as their twin motivations, UI might show more aggression in attack, while establishing a balance in the defence, courtesy of Heskeymann and Pemilerin’s presence, but FUNNAB’s structured approach makes them dangerous if underestimated.
Ultimately, this could come down to mental resilience: whether UI can convert emotion into focus or whether FUNNAB’s calmness and tactical patience will see them through. Expect a low-scoring affair, perhaps decided by a single goal, a narrow score margin, or even from the penalty spot. Both teams have endured setbacks, but their hunger for a respectable finish ensures the third-place playoff will be fiercely contested free kicks. And only one may take home the bronze medal.
PLAYERS TO WATCH – UI
HESKEYMANN – JAIYEOBA SAMUEL
The match-winner against FUOYE and a vessel in UI’s attack. His ability to find space and finish clinically makes him the player most likely to alter the game’s outcome. He thrives under pressure and has the knack for producing goals when it matters most.
MUJEEB
Beyond his technical skill, Mujeeb brings with him a sense of leadership and will aim to redeem the team after earlier disappointments. He has always been highlighting his teammates’ performances, no matter the outcome of games, he will be hoping to make that all count come Friday.
PAMILERIN
Primarily plays as a defensive midfielder in the UI football team; Pamilerin’s presence is expected to add more energy to the backline.
After conceding three goals in their semi-final, the defensive line’s ability to stay compact and avoid reckless fouls will determine whether they can neutralise FUNNAB’s fast breaks. This is a weak point Allen would want to address against the encounter next Friday.
PLAYERS TO WATCH – FUNNAB
ILORI GBENGA
The goal scorer from open play and Man of the match winner in FUNNAB’s first encounter with UI. He remains the team’s sharpest attacking weapon; beyond the goals, his movement with the ball and finishing instinct made him dangerous against a shaky UI defence.
GOALKEEPER
The first encounter between these sides underscores the fact that no matter how good or experienced a team is, there will always be a need for a good goalkeeper to save the team from their own mistakes.
UI had their chances in the first game, one of those was Heskeymann’s long-range strike for an equaliser a few minutes before the end of the game, but the goalkeeper made a timely fingertip save to give his side all three points. His reflexes and command of the box will be key in a match likely decided by fine margins.
Both teams have equal motivation but contrasting styles: the University of Ibadan, driven by attacking flair, Federal University of Agriculture, fueled by defensive structure. When these two sides meet on October 31st, it will be less about tactics alone and more about redemption, pride, and who wants the podium more.
