Joel Ajayi

The 2025 edition of the All Stars Veterans Invitational Tournament continues to deliver surprises and excitement, with Matchday 3 producing a series of gripping results that have shaken up the standings.

Former champions, All Stars International, were held to a 2-2 draw by Ocean XI All Stars in their second match of the tournament, despite having the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, featuring on their side. The result denied them a perfect two-out-of-two start.

Meanwhile, NNPC All Stars, making their debut appearance in the Abuja-based veterans tournament, bounced back from their opening day defeat to earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Nurudeen FC.

Gwagwalada All Stars continued their fine form, making it two wins from two with a solid 2-1 victory over USF. However, it was another tough outing for City Gate Sports Club, who slumped to a 1-0 loss against Corporate Kickers Sports Club—following their 3-0 opening day defeat to USF.

Elsewhere, Veragold All Stars found the competition brutally unforgiving, suffering a heavy 7-1 loss at the hands of Ex-Professional Football Club of Abuja. The match between Games Village SC and Capital City seemed destined for a 1-1 draw until Games Village SC snatched a dramatic late winner, salvaging all three points and wrapping up the day’s action in thrilling fashion.
Speaking after the games, Mallam Shehu Dikko commended the quality of organisation and the rising level of competition, aligning it with the Federal Government’s broader vision.

“I’m impressed with the organisation and the growing interest among stakeholders. This tournament is fulfilling its objective and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda—to create enabling platforms for all Nigerians, especially those who have served the country in various capacities,” he stated.

On his part, President of All Stars International, Nasiru Jibril, emphasized that the essence of the tournament transcends trophies or cash prizes.

“Our focus isn’t on who wins or takes home the prize. It’s about fostering camaraderie among ex-players and captains of industry—helping them reminisce, recharge emotionally and psychologically, and providing a valuable platform for networking and rekindling old connections,” he noted.

Meanwhile,The All Stars Invitational Veterans Tournament has taken the game to a whole new level, becoming the first locally organized competition in Nigeria to implement the use of VAR technology.

In a historic moment at the MKO Abiola Stadium, the center referee consulted VAR to review a potential infringement before a penalty was awarded during the match between All Stars International and NNPC All Stars—marking a significant milestone in the evolution of grassroots football in the country.

As the tournament progresses, the blend of competitive spirit and community building continues to set the All Stars Veterans Invitational apart as a model for grassroots and legacy-focused sporting events in Nigeria.

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