Abuja Veteran Tournament : Karu, New Karu,Others Clinch Semi-final Spots

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The 2025 Abuja Veterans Tournament has lived up to its billing as one of the most competitive editions in recent years, delivering surprises, upsets, and thrilling football moments. Defending champions, Ex-Professionals, have been sensationally knocked out, paving the way for a new winner to be crowned.

The standout story of the quarterfinal stage was the remarkable run of USF. After a shaky group stage campaign that nearly ended their hopes, the team found renewed momentum in the knockouts. They announced themselves with a commanding 3–0 victory over Capital City Club before producing the biggest upset of the tournament. Facing reigning champions Ex-Professionals, USF frustrated their more experienced opponents with disciplined defending and resolute goalkeeping to force a goalless draw. In the ensuing penalty shootout, USF held their nerve to claim a dramatic 4–3 triumph and book a historic semifinal berth.

Elsewhere, New Karu All Stars continued their impressive form, edging past Lugbe All Stars 1–0 in a closely fought contest. Karu All Stars, on their part, displayed dominance and efficiency, recording a comfortable 2–0 win over Likeminds All Stars to underline their credentials as title contenders. Apo Fitness Club also booked their place in the last four after ending Gwagwalada All Stars’ fairytale run. Both sides cancelled each other out in regular time, but Apo Fitness showed greater composure from the spot, triumphing 5–3 in the shootout.

With the quarterfinals completed, attention now shifts to the semifinals scheduled for Saturday, August 23. The fixtures promise mouthwatering encounters: New Karu All Stars will test their strength against giant-killers USF, while Karu All Stars lock horns with Apo Fitness Club in what is expected to be a fiercely contested battle.

One thing is certain — the exit of Ex-Professionals has thrown the title race wide open. As the tournament enters its decisive stage, a new champion will emerge, and with four evenly matched contenders in the hunt, Abuja fans can look forward to a thrilling climax.