- LASU Queens disqualified from FISU University World Cup in China over squad shortfall.
- Team arrived with only 13 players instead of the required 16.
- Disqualification dashes Africa’s hope of representation at the global tournament.
The Lagos State University (LASU) women’s football team, popularly known as the LASU Queens, has been disqualified from the ongoing 2025 Fédération Internationale du Sport Universitaire (FISU) University World Cup Football in Dalian, China.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the African champions were denied accreditation after failing to meet the minimum squad requirements set by the tournament organisers.
According to FISU regulations, each participating university must present at least 16 registered players and five officials. However, the LASU Queens arrived in China with only 13 players, falling three short of the required number.
“This is very unfortunate for the Nigerian team,” a FISU official told reporters. “The rules are clear and apply equally to all universities. We cannot make exceptions.”
The setback meant LASU Queens’ dream of representing Africa on the global stage ended before the tournament kicked off on September 16.
The team had been drawn in Group A alongside Shanghai University of Sport (China), University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina (Brazil), and University of Valencia (Spain). With their absence, the group will now proceed with three teams.
Group B features Beijing Normal University (China), University of Sydney (Australia), Polytechnic University of Hauts-de-France (France), and Laval Rouge et Or (Canada).
The LASU Queens had secured their qualification by defeating the University of Lagos in the final of the 2024 All Africa University Games held at the LASU Sports Centre.
Their disqualification has been described as a major blow to the continent.
“It’s a painful loss, not just for LASU but for Africa as a whole,” said Coach Adewale, who led the team through qualifiers.
“These girls worked hard to get here. It is heartbreaking that administrative and logistic issues robbed them of the chance to compete.”
A senior player also expressed her disappointment: “We were excited to showcase our talent and represent Nigeria. To be sent back without even playing is devastating.”
Despite the setback, the tournament is progressing as scheduled. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, with the grand finale set for September 28, 2025, in Dalian.
