1xCup 2024 participants discover group stage opponents

On July 24, the draw for the much-anticipated 1xCup 2024 tournament and a press conference dedicated to the event took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. This year, 1xBet has significantly increased the prize money from 5 million naira to 20 million naira, half of which will go to the winner.

The event was hosted by Tracy ‘Suo’ Chapele-Ugo, 1xBet ambassador and Nigeria’s first female sports commentator, and by the popular MC Babajide Guerrero. The draw was assisted by Victor Agali and Friday Ekpo, former Super Eagles players.

The ceremony was attended by famous football players: Wasiu Ipaye, Adeniji Shobande, Emmanuel Davies, Friday Elahor, Taiwo Enegwae, Godwin Okpara, Loveday Omoruyi, Michael Dominic, Festus Odini and Benson Edema. Other guests at the event included stars from the media field, such as Coach B.I., a famous blogger who has contributed a lot to the development of Nigerian football, scouting for young, talented players and promoting sporting traditions.

“This year’s cup brought a record number of participants, with over 160 teams applying. 40 of them were carefully selected to participate in the preliminary play-off round, after which the top 10 teams joined the 10 seeded participants in the group stage. Through initiatives like 1xCup, the 1xBet betting company is taking amateur football in Nigeria to a whole new level. We are excited to see how projects like this inspire young athletes and contribute to the growth and popularization of football in our country,” said the tournament’s technical director and former Nigeria national team player, Waidi Akanni.

The event was held at the highest level and was accompanied by active communication between the participants, journalists and guests. Those present expressed gratitude to the organizers and noted the significance of the tournament to the people of Nigeria. The draw culminated in the display of the 1xCup trophy, which was admired by all those gathered at Radisson Blu.

As a result of the draw, the teams were divided into four groups of five teams each:

Group A – FC Bethel, G12 FC, 11 Football Academy, Gunners Link FC, Wasola FC

Group B – Shomolu Bariga, Collins Edwins, Team 360 FC, Dosu Joseph FA, Ilupeju Pillars

Group C – Odion Ighalo FA, Young Striker FC, Emiloju FC, Emajus FC, Ikorodu Eagles

Group D – 36 Lions FC, Dominion Hotsport FC, Diadem Stallion Club, Royalty FC, China Sunstars FC

The 2024 tournament matches kick off on August 5 at the Legacy Pitch Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, while the final game will be played on September 25 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan.