Timeless Titans have been crowned champions of the 2026 Abuja All-Stars International Invitational Veterans Football Tournament, after defeating Abuja Ex-Pro 3-1 in the final, securing the title in the 6th edition of the annual competition.
Key Highlights
- Timeless Titans beat Abuja Ex-Pro 3-1 to win the 6th edition of the tournament.
- 21 teams of former professionals and ex-internationals took part.
- Jamilu Suleiman finished top scorer with seven goals; Donatus John won Best Goalkeeper.
- Chinoso Christopher was named MVP, while Platini Giwa won Coach of the Tournament.
- Organisers are targeting more teams for the seventh edition in 2027.
Saturday’s victory highlights the competitive spirit of the tournament, which brought together 21 teams comprising former professional footballers and ex-internationals in a gathering that promotes fitness, friendship and networking among retired players.
Organisers Speak On Growth, Challenges
Vice President of All-Stars International Football Club, Antai Effiong, said the competition has continued to expand since its inception, providing former footballers with an opportunity to remain physically active and maintain their connection with the game.
Effiong, however, attributed the reduction in participating teams to the late inauguration of the Local Organising Committee, which affected the time available for registration and preparations.
He recalled that previous editions had accommodated as many as 24 teams, expressing confidence that earlier preparations would attract more clubs for the seventh edition in 2027.
The vice president commended the organising committee for coordinating the competition, despite challenges relating to security and officiating.
He also acknowledged the support of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, particularly in providing access to sporting facilities and assisting with aspects of the tournament’s organisation and sponsorship.
Effiong further appreciated the sponsors who had supported the competition over the years, particularly the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, whom he identified as one of its longstanding supporters.
He explained that the tournament was established to foster relationships, encourage networking and promote healthy lifestyles among former footballers as they advance in age.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Umar Aliyu, described the 2026 edition as another significant step in the tournament’s growth, noting that it featured several debutants alongside former internationals and ex-professional players.
Aliyu disclosed that about six former international players participated in the competition, alongside other ex-professionals.
He said the tournament is designed primarily for football veterans aged 40 and above, providing them with an opportunity to maintain their fitness while strengthening relationships beyond the football pitch.
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Champions React
Captain of the victorious Timeless Titans, Luka Dauda, popularly known as Baba 11, described the triumph as a remarkable achievement, particularly given what he considered the team’s inadequate preparation before the competition.
Dauda attributed the victory to perseverance, teamwork and faith, expressing gratitude to God for helping his side secure the trophy.
He also praised the organisers for creating a platform where former professional footballers could reconnect with the sport, exercise and maintain healthy relationships.
He said the tournament remains important to retired footballers because it offered them an opportunity to stay active, maintain their health and share memorable experiences with former teammates and family members.
Award Winners
Meanwhile, outstanding players and officials were recognised for their performances during the competition.
Jamilu Suleiman of Ex-Professionals emerged the highest goal scorer after finding the net seven times, while his teammate, Donatus John, received the Best Goalkeeper award.
Other award recipients include Chinoso Christopher, who won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award; George White, named Man of the Match (MOTM); and Platini Giwa, who received the Coach of the Tournament honour.
Following Timeless Titans’ triumph, attention is expected to shift to the seventh edition in 2027, with the organisers expressing optimism that early preparations, increased participation and improved administration will make the next tournament even more successful.
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