The atmosphere at the UDS base was charged with excitement as the Ambassador was warmly received by a high-powered delegation from the university, led by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan. Accompanying him were the Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, the Director of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Hardi Shaibu, the Vice Dean of the School of Medicine, and the Secretary of the Sports Advisory Committee, Mr. Yussif Abdulai.
After listening to a stirring welcome statement from Prof. Alhassan, the Ambassador was introduced to the technical team and playing body by team captain, Mohammed Asigre, who spoke with visible pride as he presented his teammates to Ghana’s envoy.
Ambassador Bonsu asked the Registrar, Mr. Abubakar, to read a congratulatory statement he had delivered on behalf of the President of the Republic, H. E. John Dramani Mahama. The message conveyed the President’s deep admiration for the gallant UDS players, describing their feat as “a moment of national pride that has lifted the flag of Ghana high on the world stage.”
Turning to the players, the visibly elated Ambassador could not hide his own emotions. “I was so excited watching you win the tournament. You have brought immense glory to Ghana, and I can assure you this victory will further strengthen the relations between Ghana and China,” he said.
The Ambassador also took a personal trip down memory lane, recounting his longstanding connection with football. “From my school days at Tamale Senior High School, to serving as Director of Real Tamale United, and later as Team Manager of the Black Stars, football has always been part of my life. That is why today, standing before you as world champions, I am truly proud.”
In a gesture that drew loud cheers from the players, H. E. Kojo Bonsu, who once served as Mayor of Kumasi, presented a cash donation of 10,000 Chinese yuan to the playing body and the technical team, describing it as a token of appreciation for their hard work and resilience.
The players were visibly thrilled by the visit and the generosity. Captain Mohammed Asigre, speaking on behalf of his teammates, described the moment as “a dream come true” and said the Ambassador’s encouragement would forever inspire the team.
Head Coach, Mr. Ibrahim Shaibu Tanko, also expressed the team’s gratitude.
“This visit crowns our victory. To have the Ambassador of our country come here in person to celebrate with us is something we will never forget,” he said with pride.
The historic visit added yet another golden chapter to UDS’ fairytale campaign in China, as the young men who lifted Ghana to global football glory continue to bask in the admiration of their nation and its leaders.
The team is due back in Ghana on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 11:30am.
Credit: Abdul Hayi Moomen,UDS Media
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