The qualifying matches for the fourth season of the 1xCup treated fans to loads of thrilling moments and unpredictable outcomes. Nigeria’s best amateur football clubs fought for their dream and represented their communities with honour. The qualifiers determined the 24 strongest teams that will continue their quest for the 1xCup 2026 trophy and a ₦20 million prize pool.

When, where and how: what you need to know about the group stage draw

On September 11 at 12:00 pm, The Providence Hotel will host the draw ceremony for the group stage of the 1xCup 2026. The event will be attended by the organizers of the 1xCup 2026, representatives of the participating clubs, sponsors, and prominent figures in Nigerian football. The media will have the opportunity to learn more about the teams and players, and to speak directly with the people behind Lagos’s biggest grassroots football tournament. Journalists will be able to bring fans exclusive stories about talented players who may well make their professional debuts very soon. Last year, the draw ceremony set the tone for the entire competition.

Among the invited guests of 1xCup will be Nigerian football legend and LaLiga Ambassador Mutiu Adepoju, football veteran Dimeji Lawal sports analyst and commentator Biola Kazeem, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Lagos State Governor Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on Youth Alabi Opeyemi, Senior Special Assistant on SDGs Folorunsho Michael, as well as Lagos Liga Commissioner and founder of Asem Sport Management Sandra Omoniyi. 

Attending the draw ceremony offers the chance to take a look behind the scenes of the popular tournament and see the world of amateur football from a different perspective. The 1xCup 2026 is a unique sporting event that combines football with socially significant initiatives.

Following the draw, the 24 clubs that have qualified will be divided into 6 groups of 4 teams each. They will continue to compete for spots in the knockout stage. Scouts from professional clubs will attend the games.

Experience the unique atmosphere of Lagos’s top grassroots tournament and share it with fellow supporters. Journalists, reporters, and other media representatives will be able to attend the draw for the 1xCup 2026 group stage upon prior registration. To obtain accreditation for the event, you must follow the link and complete the Google form.