The draw for the highly anticipated 1xCup 2024 tournament took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, on July 24. The event, hosted by 1xBet ambassador Tracy Suo Chapele Ugo and popular MC Babajide Guerrero, saw former Super Eagles players Victor Agali and Friday Ekpo assist with the draw.
Prize Money Increase 1xBet has significantly increased the prize money from 5 million naira to 20 million naira, with half going to the winner.
Record Participation This year’s tournament attracted over 160 team applications, with 40 teams selected for the preliminary play off round. The top 10 from this round joined 10 seeded teams in the group stage.
Group Draw The teams were divided into four groups of five teams each:
Group A FC Bethel, G12 Football Club, 11 Football Academy, Gunners Link FC, Wasola Football Club.
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Group B Shomolu Bariga, Collins Edwins, Team 360 FC, Dosu Joseph, Ilupeju Pillars.
Group C Odion Ighalo FA, Young Striker FC, Emiloju Football Club, Emajus Football Club, Ikorodu Eagles.
Group D 36 Lions Football Club, Dominion Hosport FC, Diadem Stallion Club, Royalty Football Club, China Sunstars FC.
Waidi Akanni, the tournament’s technical director and former Nigeria national team player, expressed excitement about the tournament’s potential to inspire young athletes and contribute to the growth of football in Nigeria.
The matches will commence on August 5 at the Legacy Pitch Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, with the final set for September 25 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan.
Editorial
The 1xCup 2024 promises to be an exciting showcase of Nigeria’s football talent. The significant increase in prize money underscores 1xBet’s commitment to fostering amateur football in Nigeria. This tournament is more than just a competition it is a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their skills and for scouts to identify future stars.
The draw, conducted with the help of Nigerian football legends, added a touch of prestige to the event. The presence of former Super Eagles players and other football icons highlights the importance of this tournament in the Nigerian football calendar.
The tournament’s structure, starting with a record number of applicants and narrowing down to the top teams, ensures high competition. Each group is packed with teams eager to prove themselves, promising thrilling matches from the outset.
Waidi Akanni’s remarks about the role of initiatives like 1xCup in promoting football resonate deeply. The tournament provides a competitive platform and fosters community and national pride. The commitment to fair officiating and smooth organization further elevates the tournament’s standard, ensuring players and fans have an exceptional experience.
As the teams prepare for the group stages, the anticipation builds. Fans across Nigeria will be watching closely, supporting their local teams and celebrating the beautiful game. The 1xCup 2024 is set to inspire, entertain, and contribute significantly to the development of football in Nigeria.
Did You Know?
- Historic Venue The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, where the final will be played, is one of Nigeria’s most historic stadiums, having hosted numerous important matches over the years.
- Former Winners Previous editions of the 1xCup have seen teams from different regions of Nigeria emerge victorious, showcasing the widespread talent across the country.
- Scouting Opportunities The tournament is known for attracting scouts from top Nigerian clubs, making it a crucial platform for young players aiming to go professional.
- Community Impact Beyond the competition, 1xCup organizers are involved in community outreach, using football to engage and uplift local communities.
- Rising Stars Many players who have participated in the 1xCup have gone on to join professional clubs in Nigeria and abroad, highlighting the tournament’s role in player development.
