The Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, came alive on October 16 as the curtains closed on the 1xCup 2025, Nigeria’s biggest amateur football tournament organized by global betting company 1xBet. The day delivered thrilling football, emotional victories, and a celebration of grassroots talent.
Third Place Match: Dosu Joseph FC Edge Nath Boys FA 2–1
The third-place playoff saw Dosu Joseph FC complete an impressive turnaround after a shaky start to the tournament.
Nath Boys FA opened scoring in the 15th minute following a swift counterattack that left the opposing goalkeeper stranded. But Dosu Joseph FC came back stronger after the break, netting two quick goals in the opening five minutes of the second half — one capitalizing on a goalkeeper’s error and the other a stunning direct corner kick.
Despite Nath Boys’ attacking flair throughout the tournament, their finishing failed them in this fixture. Dosu Joseph even had a third goal disallowed for offside but held on to secure a 2–1 victory and ₦3 million in prize money.
Final: Ikorodu City FA Triumph as Defense Wins the Day
In a tightly contested final, Ikorodu City FA defeated ISAGT 1–0 to clinch the 1xCup 2025 title.
Known for their solid defense, Ikorodu City once again proved that discipline and stability are key to success. Their decisive moment came in the 72nd minute, when ISAGT’s defensive lapse allowed Ikorodu City to score the only goal of the game.
The champions finished the tournament with an outstanding record, conceding just two goals en route to the trophy.
Individual and Team Awards
Beyond the trophies, several standout performers were recognized for their excellence on the pitch:
- Team of the Tournament: Ikorodu City FA — ₦300,000
- Best Coach: Wellington Egor (Ikorodu City FA) — ₦300,000
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Adewale Quadri (Nath Boys FA) — ₦300,000
- Best Team Goal: ISAGT FA — ₦300,000
- Top Scorer: Uche Emeribe (Vinmo Energy FA) — ₦300,000
- Best Goalkeeper: Abdullahi Sulaiman (Ikorodu City FA) — ₦250,000
- Highlight of the Tournament: Dosu Joseph FC — ₦250,000
A Celebration of Nigerian Grassroots Football
Reflecting on the tournament’s success, 1xCup CEO, Alhaji Waheed Akanni, described the grand finale as “electrifying.”
“The atmosphere was filled with excitement, unity, and fanfare that transformed the arena into a vibrant carnival — surpassing every expectation of grassroots football in Nigeria,” he said.
This year’s edition drew over 450 team applications, underscoring the growing passion for football across Nigeria.
Though the 1xCup 2025 has ended, its spirit continues to inspire players, fans, and communities who believe in the unifying power of the beautiful game.
See you at 1xCup 2026 — a new chapter for amateur football in Nigeria.