The qualifying round matches of the largest amateur football tournament, 1xCup, were played in Lagos. One of the biggest events in Nigerian sports attracted huge attention from fans who actively supported the teams. Thousands of people watched the last 10 squads who qualified for the group stage. They were rewarded with a breathtaking spectacle and sometimes a real scoring extravaganza. Thus, in the game between Bethel FC and Addo Waterside FC, the hosts won with a 9-0 score, and the winning player, Okechukwu Nwanna, made a unique achievement. He scored a penta-trick - 5 goals in one match, and thanks to this, he topped the list of the tournament’s best scorers.
However, such an advantage of one team over the other was an exception - almost all struggles showed a more intense and equal fight. In the clash between Crusader FC and Edufoot Sports FC, the former squad won thanks to a goal in the 9th minute, although later, both opponents had many chances to change the score. In the game between Elite Stars and Divine Praise, the Stars took their opportunity in the last minutes, showing their ability to fight till the end.
There were also penalty shootouts: City Sports FC defeated De-Potters FC, and China Stars FC was stronger than Vido 99 FC. The winning squads showed high-quality psychological preparation and the ability to take a punch - something that even the world football superstars sometimes lack. These are valuable qualities that may still be useful during the tournament.
“We are impressed by the competition level and the quality of play in almost all games. It shows how responsibly the teams approached 1xCup. They compete not only for the potential attention of scouts from leading clubs in Nigeria and a 20,000,000 NGN prize pool but also for the honor of their regions, for the respect of fans and other players,” said a 1xBet representative, the official partner of the tournament. “Our company is impressed by the interest in this event, so we took an unprecedented step. Starting from the group stage, 1xCup matches will be available for betting on our website and app. Now, fans can support their favorites not only in the stands but also online. Making money on your community’s squad victory is a great opportunity that will appeal to many sports fans,” added the 1xBet representative.
Based on the qualifying struggles, the group stage participants are Emaljus Football Club, Ilupeju Piller FC, China Sunstars FC, G12 Football Club/Academy, Dosu Joseph Football Club Lagos, Diadem Stallion Sports Club/Academy, FC Bethel Sporting, Gunner Link FC, Wasola Venture FC, and Ikorodu Eagles E'clat FC.
These teams will join those who received invitations based on the 1xCup 2023. These are SBLFC Somolu Bariga LFC, Ighalo Football Academy, 36 Lions FC, Team360 Football Club, Young Striker FC, Dominion Hotspur FC, Collins Edwin Sports Club, Eleven Football Academy, Emiloju Football Club and Royalty Football Club.
Soon, these squads may attract even more fans and scouts. Following the 1xCup 2023 results, the tournament's best players received invitations from Nigerian and foreign professional clubs. Football is an excellent social elevator, and 1xBet is a socially responsible bookmaker happy with the participating teams’ success who tries to do everything to make this elevator work as efficiently as possible.
The draw for the group stage will be held on July 24, and the matches will be played in August and September 2024. The games will give fans bright emotions, goals, and sensations. Come to the stadiums, bet on your favorites, and watch the birth of future legends at 1xCup!