The 2025 edition of the All Stars Veterans Invitational Tournament continues to capture hearts and headlines, with Matchday 3 producing a flurry of goals, upsets, and a powerful message of unity through sport. As the tournament unfolds in Nigeria’s capital, the event’s significance has moved beyond the pitch—receiving high praise from key national figures.

Among those lending support is the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who featured in All Stars International’s thrilling 2-2 draw against Ocean XI. Speaking after the match, he lauded the tournament’s growing reputation and reaffirmed its alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This tournament isn’t just about football—it’s about legacy, wellness, and opportunity,” said Dikko. “We are building a platform where ideas, connections, and second chances can thrive. It’s in line with the Renewed Hope vision to give all Nigerians—especially our veterans—a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.”

The third day of the tournament lived up to its billing, delivering drama and passion across six fixtures. Former champions All Stars International were denied a second consecutive win as they settled for a 2-2 draw against a resilient Ocean XI. Despite taking an early lead, All Stars were pegged back by a late equalizer.

In one of the day’s standout fixtures, Ex-Professional FC Abuja demolished Veragold FC with a commanding 7-1 victory, reaffirming their status as tournament favorites. Guided by their respected Technical Adviser, Platini Umar Giwa, the defending champions displayed tactical brilliance and squad depth.

“Every game is different, and we adapt accordingly,” said Giwa. “Our goal is to take it one match at a time while staying focused on the bigger picture—retaining the title.”

Other results saw Gwagwalada All Stars maintain their perfect start with a gritty 2-1 win over USF, while Games Village SC clinched a late 2-1 victory over Capital City Club, thrilling fans at the MKO Abiola Stadium. City Gate Sports Club suffered their second defeat, losing 1-0 to Corporate Kickers, while debutants NNPC All Stars registered their first point with a 1-1 draw against Nurudeen Veterans.

In a landmark moment for grassroots football in Nigeria, VAR technology was successfully deployed for the first time during the clash between All Stars International and NNPC All Stars. The referee consulted the system before awarding a crucial penalty, marking a technological leap forward for domestic tournaments.

This development positions the All Stars Invitational as a trailblazer in modernizing local football and enhancing officiating standards—yet another testament to the tournament’s ambition and innovation.

Beyond the goals and glory, the tournament serves as a vital avenue for networking, wellness, and emotional reconnection. Nasiru Jibril, President of All Stars International, echoed this sentiment.

 

“This isn’t about trophies,” he said. “It’s about bringing together leaders, ex-athletes, and professionals to celebrate life, reconnect with old teammates, and reenergize mentally and socially. That’s the real prize.”

 

With competition heating up and storylines evolving, the All Stars Veterans Invitational Tournament has proven itself to be more than a sporting spectacle—it is a community of legacy, hope, and inspiration.

 

Matchday 3 Results (Full-Time)

1. Ocean XI 2–2 All Stars Int’l FC, Abuja

2. NNPC 1–1 Nurudeen Veterans

3. Gwagwalada All Stars 2–1 USF

4. City Gate SC 0–1 Corporate Kickers SC

5. Veragold FC 1–7 Ex-Professional FC Abuja

6. Games Village FC 2–1 Capital City Club

 

As Matchday 4 approaches, fans and players alike look forward to more memorable moments in what is fast becoming a landmark event in Nigeria’s football calendar.