As the sun rose on the bustling city of Abuja, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for the annual All-Stars Veterans Tournament. Among the eager competitors was Ex-Professional FC, a team comprised of former football stars eager to relive their glory days in the tournament so far. 

Group Stage Matches

Group E: Ex-Professional FC, Capital City Sport Club, Karu All-Stars, Games Village FC

Ex-Professional kicked off their campaign against Capital City Sport Club. The match was tense, with both teams showcasing their skills. However, it was Stanley Richard’s disciplined performance in the second half that clinched a 1-0 victory, earning Ex-Professional their first three points. The crowd erupted as the whistle blew, signaling the end of the match, and the team celebrated their hard-fought win.

Next up was Karu All-Stars. Despite the hype surrounding their opponents, Ex-Professional remained focused. With another strong showing, Stanley Richard once again found the net, sealing a narrow 1-0 victory and solidifying Ex-Professional’s place at the top of the group.

The final group match against Games Village FC saw Ex-Professional rotate their squad, resting key players after their back-to-back victories. Early on, Games Village took the lead, but Israel, known for his relentless attack, equalized, ending the match at 1-1. The team advanced to the knockout stages with confidence.

Knockout Rounds

In the Round of 16, Ex-Professional faced University of Abuja Teaching Hospital. The match was fiercely contested, ending goalless after full time. It all came down to penalties, where Ex-Professional triumphed 4-3, thanks to their goalkeeper’s heroics.

Moving into the quarter-finals, Ex-Professional found themselves pitted against Karu All-Stars once more. The stakes were high, but Stanley Richard delivered again, scoring the lone goal that sent Ex-Professional to the semi-finals. The team’s resolve was palpable as they celebrated yet another victory over their rivals.

The Semifinal Showdown

The semi-final brought Ex-Professional face-to-face with Likemind All-Stars Kuje. From the outset, Ex-Professional demonstrated their determination, with Ifeanyi Alaribe opening the scoring with a stunning 25-yard free kick that found the back of the net. As the match progressed, Israel, chasing the golden boot, netted the second goal from a clever flick-on, securing a 2-0 win and propelling Ex-Professional into the final for the first time in the tournament’s history.

The Final

The grand finale was set: Ex-Professional vs. Nyanya All-Stars FC. The match promised to be thrilling, to be held at the prestigious FIFA Goal Project field in Moshood Abiola Stadium. Fans will gather in droves, filling the stands with energy and excitement.

The whistle will blew at 11 AM on October 19, 2024, the atmosphere will be electrifying . Ex-Professional who are determined to carry their momentum into the final. Every pass, tackle, and shot will echoed the team’s relentless spirit. The players will fight with every ounce of energy, driven by the dream of lifting the trophy.

As the match unfolded, it will be clear that Ex-Professional had come to play. They will displayed tactical brilliance, solid defense, and an unyielding desire to win. With each passing minute, the hope of victory will grow stronger.

In the end, Ex-Professional hope to emerge victorious, securing their place as champions of the Abuja Invitational All-Stars Veterans Tournament. The triumph will be a testament to their teamwork, resilience, and the enduring spirit of those who once graced the professional pitches of the country.