Excitement builds as 1xCup 2025 group stage draw unveiled in Lagos

The stage is set for one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing football tournaments as the group stage draw for the 2025 edition of the 1xCup was officially conducted at a packed Radisson Blu Hotel in Lagos on Tuesday.

The star-studded ceremony attracted notable football figures, club owners, sports news editors, and enthusiastic fans, all eager to witness the unveiling of fixtures for the highly anticipated grassroots competition.

Hosted by 1xBet ambassador and Nigeria’s first female pidgin sports commentator, Suo Chapele, alongside celebrated media personality MC Babajide Guerrero, the event blended sports, entertainment, and flair.

One of the evening’s highlights was a captivating performance by an illusionist, adding a magical twist to the occasion.

Speaking at the event, a member of the 1xCup 2025 organizing committee emphasized the tournament’s guiding values.

“We needed to ensure a high level of organization for both the event and the draw procedure. Honesty, transparency, and fair play are the most important principles of the 1xCup 2025,” the official stated. “The tournament doesn’t end outside the pitch, but football is the main part of the celebration.”

Also sharing his excitement, the coach of one of the participating teams remarked:

“A year ago, I attended the draw and was pleasantly surprised by the publicity it attracted. But this time, the event was even more impressive. There were so many journalists in the hall that I felt like a celebrity for a moment. Now we’re even more eager to prove ourselves at the tournament.”

1xCup 2025 Group Stage Draw

Group A:
Community Gunners FC, 36 Lions FC, Collins Edwin FC, Africano FC, Nath Boys FA

Group B:
Emaljus FC, Ikorodu City FA, G-Innovation FC, Young Strikers FA, ECAS FA

Group C:
Emiloju FC, Dosu Joseph FA, Utility FC, Soccer Cardinals FA, ISGAT

Group D:
FC Bethel Sporting, Inspire Sports Academy, Divine Praise FC, Vinmo Energy FA, Brighton FC

Tournament Schedule
Group Stage: August 12 – September 10

Wild Card Round: September 16–17

Quarter-finals: September 23–24

Semi-finals: September 30

Final: October 9

Now in its third edition, the 1xCup has grown rapidly in popularity, becoming a staple in Nigeria’s grassroots football calendar.

Last year saw over 160 clubs apply to participate. This year, interest skyrocketed, with more than 450 teams vying for a place in the competition.

Backed by betting giant 1xBet, the tournament aims not just to showcase talent but also to foster community development and engagement.

According to the organizers, the 1xCup serves as a platform for hundreds of young players to shine – many of whom previously had limited opportunities.

“The 1xCup isn’t just about goals and results,” a statement from 1xBet read. “It’s about bringing joy to fans and improving relations between communities. That’s why we’re proud of how far it has come.”