12 clubs advance in dramatic 1xCup play‑in round in Nigeria

Nigeria’s 1xCup 2025 play-in stage produced thrills and huge goals as twelve teams clinched their spots in the next phase of the country’s biggest amateur tournament. Sponsored by 1xBet, the second week was packed with spectacular finishes, refereeing dramas, and tense penalty shoot-outs.

The triumphant sides advancing are High Klass FA, Vido 99 FC, Wasola FC, Prince Kazeem Eletu FC, Team 360 FC, Africano FC and Isgat Athletic FC. They join pre-qualified teams FC BETHEL Academy, Community Gunners FC, Emaljus FC and Emiloju FC in the upcoming group stage.

Inspire Sport Academy turned heads with an 8–0 rout of Power Rangers FC, showcasing their attacking firepower. Wasola FC edged past Indomitables FC in a thrilling 3–2 victory, aided by a late goal allowed despite goalkeeper protests. Meanwhile, both Brighton FC and Frackson FC held their nerve in penalty shoot-outs to overcome Joint FC and Franceex United FC respectively. The narrow margins exemplify the competitive spirit of this grassroots competition.

As only four slots remain to complete the 16-team group stage, the play in phase is expected to grow even more intense. The tournament has sparked excitement across Nigeria and beyond as amateur football continues to unearth emerging talents nationwide.

Editorial

We celebrate the 1xCup’s play-in spectacle as proof that Nigerian grassroots football pulses with energy and promise. Seeing teams such as High Klass FA and Inspire Sport Academy dominate reflects the depth and potential present in communities across the country.

We believe the tournament structure allowing amateur clubs to battle through dramatic knock-out rounds—empowers players to shine under pressure. It also draws local passions and unites fans behind clubs that represent regional pride. The 8–0 win by Inspire Sport Academy illustrates how ambition, coaching and confidence can produce performances worthy of national attention.

We emphasise that such platforms deserve continued support and visibility. Sponsors like 1xBet have provided essential backing, but we must also encourage media coverage, coaching development and scouting networks to ensure talent is identified and nurtured. The tale of Wasola FC’s late, controversial goal is not merely about a referee’s decision it’s about resilience in the face of unpredictability.

We maintain that the excitement generated by penalty shoot-outs and last-minute goals drives engagement, and such flair is the fertile soil from which future professionals can grow. Let this round of 12 advancing teams remind us that Nigerian football’s strength lies in its foundation dynamic grassroots competition embedded in communities.

We conclude that sustaining and growing tournaments like the 1xCup is essential. They are not just events—they are breeding grounds for stars whose journeys begin on dusty pitches and penalty shootouts.

Did You Know?

1. The 1xCup was launched in 2021 and has quickly become Nigeria’s premier grassroots tournament, with thousands of amateur clubs registering annually.
2. Winners of past editions include Dream Stars Academy (2022) and Delta Warriors FC (2023), both of whom went on to produce players signed by domestic professional sides.
3. Matches in the 1xCup are officiated by referees drawn from the Nigerian Referees Association, offering them vital experience in high-pressure settings.
4. Studies show that winning a penalty shoot‑out boosts player confidence and mental resilience, influencing performance in subsequent matches.
5. The official website streams highlights and player interviews, offering grassroots football unprecedented visibility to scouts and fans alike.