By, David Simeon

The Main Bowl of the University of Benin came alive at exactly 2.00 p.m. as students, staff and supporters gathered for the grand finale of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences Dean’s Cup. What unfolded was an afternoon of intense competition, athletic display and, ultimately, history   as the Department of Geomatics successfully defended its title to emerge Dean’s Cup champions for the second consecutive year.

The event opened with the third-place play-off between the Department of Estate Management and the Department of Geography. Estate Management delivered a confident and well-structured performance, defeating Geography 2–0 to secure third place in the tournament.

The highlight of the day, however, was the much-anticipated final between the Department of Geomatics and the Department of Fine and Applied Arts. Both teams approached the encounter with determination, displaying tactical discipline and defensive solidity. Despite several goal-scoring opportunities, neither side found the back of the net during regulation time, forcing the match into a penalty shoot-out.

In the decisive moments from the spot, Geomatics showed remarkable composure, converting four penalties while restricting Fine and Applied Arts to just two successful kicks. Geomatics consequently clinched a 4–2 victory in the shoot-out. The triumph marked their second consecutive Dean’s Cup title, cementing their growing dominance in faculty football and drawing loud celebrations from supporters who filled the stands.

Beyond football, the event also featured track competitions that added excitement to the afternoon. In the women’s 100-metre race, the Department of Quantity Surveying claimed victory with an impressive sprint performance. In the men’s 100-metre race, the Department of Geography emerged victorious, demonstrating speed and athletic excellence on the track.

The final was graced by key faculty officials, including the Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, the Assistant Dean, the Head of Department of Fine and Applied Arts and other principal officers of the faculty. Their presence underscored the importance of sport as a unifying platform within the academic community.

As the sun gradually set over the Main Bowl, one narrative remained clear: the Dean’s Cup stays with the Department of Geomatics. With back-to-back titles now secured, the department has not only defended its crown but also strengthened its legacy within the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at the University of Benin.

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