Abuja All Stars Invitational: Lugbe Stuns All Stars International as Quarterfinal Lineup Takes Shape

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

For the second year running, All Stars International have bowed out in dramatic fashion at the ongoing Abuja All Stars International Invitational Tournament, crashing out to Lugbe All Stars in a nail-biting round of 16 clash.

Boasting a star-studded lineup featuring ex-internationals like Taiwo Enegwa, Patrick Paschal, and National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, All Stars International started brightly, piling pressure on Lugbe — a side that barely made it out of the group stage. Their early dominance paid off with a well-taken goal in the first half.

However, the tide turned after the break.

Lugbe All Stars came out rejuvenated, swarming the midfield and launching relentless attacks. Despite going down to 10 men after a red card, they refused to back down. Then came the turning point — a controversial penalty after a reckless shove inside the box. The initial spot-kick was saved, but a retake was ordered as the All Stars goalkeeper stepped off his line. The second time of asking, Lugbe made no mistake.

The match ended 1-1 in regulation time and headed to penalties, where Lugbe All Stars held their nerve to triumph 3-2, sending All Stars International packing once again.

Elsewhere, the fireworks continued.

All Stars New Karu were ruthless against debutants NNPC, firing on all cylinders in a 3-0 demolition job to book their quarterfinal ticket in style.

USF All Stars carried their late group-stage momentum into the knockouts, dismantling Capital City Club 3-0. Their title charge is looking more convincing by the match.

In the tightest clash of the round, Defending Champions Ex-Professionals were pushed to their limits by a gritty Corporate Kickers SC. After a goalless deadlock, they needed penalties to advance, holding their nerve to win 4-2.

As the quarterfinals loom, the Abuja football jungle has thinned. Now, only the bold, the battle-hardened, and the brave remain. The hunt for glory is well and truly on.