The stage is set, the drums are beating, and Abuja braces itself for a football spectacle that promises to shake the very core of the Federal Capital Territory. On Saturday, August 30th, 2025, it will be New Karu All Stars versus Karu All Stars — a final that has all the makings of legend.

This year’s Abuja Veterans Tournament has been nothing short of breathtaking — defending champions dumped out at the quarterfinals, shocking results at every turn, and now, the guarantee of a brand-new champion. But what makes this grand finale even more mouthwatering is that not only will top ex-internationals grace the occasion, they will be right in the thick of the action.

The Road to the Final 

The journey to this grand showdown has been nothing short of electrifying.
For New Karu All Stars, the fairytale began right from the group stage, where their dazzling artistry, fluid team play, and sheer football intelligence captured the hearts of fans. They stormed into the knockout rounds in style, dismantling NNPC All Stars with a commanding 3-0 victory in the Round of 16, before edging Lugbe All Stars 1-0 in a tense quarterfinal battle. Their resilience reached new heights in the semifinal against Unity Sports Foundation — falling behind early, but roaring back with fire and flair to secure a 3-1 comeback win that stamped their place in the final with authority.

On the other side, Karu All Stars, the seasoned warriors, had to grind every inch of the way. Their campaign kicked off with a pulsating 2-1 triumph over MC Steve All Stars in the Round of 16, followed by a clinical 2-0 dismissal of Likeminds All Stars in the quarterfinals. Then came their toughest test yet — a nerve-racking semifinal clash with Apo Fitness Club. Apo dominated the early exchanges and clawed back an equalizer after falling behind, but Karu’s grit, heart, and unyielding spirit shone through. With the clock ticking down and nothing to separate the sides, penalties decided the fate. In a cauldron of tension, Karu All Stars held their nerve to clinch a 5-4 shootout victory, sending their fans into wild jubilation and booking their place in what promises to be a final for the ages.

The Grand Finale
Now, it’s neighbor versus neighbor, experience versus resilience, history versus destiny — a Karu derby that promises fireworks. Will the debutants, New Karu All Stars, crown their fairytale run with glory? Or will Karu All Stars prove that old guards never fade away?

One thing is certain: Abuja will witness a football carnival, and only one Karu will reign supreme.

Meanwhile, in the third-place match, Unity Sports Foundation will square up against Apo Fitness Club in another clash to remember.