Rita Odafe
Amid the buzz and anticipation of the 1xCup 2024 tournament, the draw unveiling the group stage pairings was held on July 24 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. This year’s prize money, sponsored by 1xBet, has been increased substantially from 5 million naira to 20 million naira, with half of the amount set to go to the ultimate winner.
The draw event was emceed by Tracy «Suo» Chapele-Ugo, one of 1xBet’s ambassadors and Nigeria’s pioneering female sports commentator, alongside the popular MC Babajide Guerrero. Former Super Eagles players Victor Agali and Friday Ekpo assisted in the draw process.
The occasion was graced by notable football figures such as Wasiu Ipaye, Adeniji Shobande, Emmanuel Davies, and others. The increased number of participants, with over 160 teams applying, made this year’s tournament highly competitive. The 1xBet initiative through events like 1xCup is revolutionizing amateur football in Nigeria, as highlighted by the tournament’s technical director, Waidi Akanni.
The draw ceremony was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from attendees, who acknowledged the tournament’s significance in Nigeria’s sporting landscape. The event culminated in the unveiling of the coveted 1xCup trophy, a moment that was cherished by all present at Radisson Blu.
As a result of the draw, the participating teams were divided into four groups, setting the stage for an intense competition:
Group A
- FC Bethel
- G12 Football Club
- 11 Football Academy
- Gunners Link FC
- Wasola Football Club
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
The 1xCup 2024 tournament kicks off on August 5 at the Legacy Pitch Stadium in Surulere, with the final showdown scheduled for September 25 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan. Best wishes to all the teams from 1xBet as they vie for glory in the competition!
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