By joshua Lugbe Deanery Beats Kubwa, Advances to Semi-Final in Abuja Archdiocesan CMO Soccer Championship
The Lugbe Deanery Catholic Men Organisation (LDCMO) defeated Kubwa Deanery at the weekend to secure a semi-final spot in the ongoing Abuja Archdiocesan CMO (AACMO) football tournament.
The AACMO Soccer tournament, taking place at the Papal Ground, Kubwa, and organised as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the CMO in Nigeria, kicked off on June 27, 2026 from the quarter-finals with the 8 Deaneries of Abuja Archdiocese.
According to a statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of Lugbe Deanery CMO Media/Publicity Committee, Brother Michael Jegede and Brother Anselm Okoro respectively, “Lugbe Deanery edged Kubwa Deanery 12 – 11 in a marathon penalty shootout after both sides were tied 0 – 0 at full time.”
In his reaction to the victory, President of Lugbe Deanery CMO, Engr. (Chief) Felix Okeke, expressed great joy over the outcome of the match.
He was quoted as saying: “I feel so happy about the triumph of our team. It was the crystallization of the efforts of our Deanery Football Tournament Committee. I thank everyone of our team members and look forward to easier outings in the remaining fixtures.
“I expect a resounding win in our next match within the regulation time. Today’s win was sweet but it didn’t come easy. A tie at regulation time and the ensuing 14 penalties by each side resulting in our win was not easy to stand. But I thank God we eventually emerged triumphant.”
The Chairman of Lugbe Deanery CMO Sports Committee, Brother Sunday Otori, who is also the Vice President of LDCMO, said: “The victory over Kubwa Deanery was nothing short of amazing, especially considering they are the hosts of the ongoing AACMO Football Tournament. Our players displayed outstanding commitment, discipline, teamwork, and determination from the first whistle to the final blast.
“I sincerely appreciate every player, coach, official, and supporters whose contributions made this memorable victory possible. This result is a testament to the hard work and unity within our team.
“To the rest of the Deaneries, take note—this is only the beginning. Our best is yet to come. By the grace of God, we remain focused, humble, and determined as we continue our pursuit of the championship.
“Congratulations to the entire team, and may God continue to guide and strengthen us all.”
The Lugbe Deanery team manager, Brother Tochukwu Obiefuna, hailed the resilience and fighting spirit of the players, while also applauding the coaching crew headed by Ambassador Okocha Dixie.
His words: “A huge thank you to the Lugbe Deanery for the privilege given me to serve as Team Manager.
“To our players: your resilience and strict adherence to our tactics against a tough Kubwa Deanery were phenomenal!
“Shoutout to our brilliant coaching crew and our passionate supporters for giving us that extra push from the sidelines.
“Great win today, but the job isn’t finished. On to the semi-finals and straight to the final! CMO… Christ is Our Leader!”
The Lugbe Deanery CMO will face Karu in the semi-finals, while Wuse take on Bwari on July 25, 2026. The third-place match and final for the AACMO soccer championship will take place on August 1.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Lugbe Deanery CMO Football Tournament, which commenced with six groups at the preliminary round on May 9, will conclude with the final match on July 26. Featuring 26 parishes and pastoral areas within the deanery and structured to international football standards, the competition is currently at the semi-final stage.
The Lugbe Deanery CMO football squad was drawn from top players across participating parishes in the ongoing Lugbe Deanery tournament.