The countdown has begun for the much-anticipated 1xCup 2026 as community football clubs across Lagos State prepare for an exciting battle in the qualifying rounds of one of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football tournaments.
The competition, which will run from July 23 to September 4, 2026, will take place at the Inspire Sport Arena, with matches scheduled every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
A total of 100 clubs drawn from the Ikeja, Lagos/Island, Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe Divisions will compete for qualification into the group stage. The championship continues to provide a platform for discovering young talents while promoting community football across Lagos State.
Ikeja Division Fixtures
The tournament opens on Thursday, July 23 with Qualifier One featuring:
- Inspire SC vs Da Faria FC
- Turfseason FC vs Oworo United FC
Qualifier Two will see:
- Dosu Joseph FA vs Ikosi FC
- Synergy Ultimate FC vs Crusader FC
On Saturday, August 1, Qualifier Three features:
- Somolu/Bariga FC vs Cityfut Escol FC
- Elite Stars FC vs Lagos Titan FC
Qualifier Four:
- Soccer Cardinal vs Royalty Athletic FC
- Dynamic FC vs Vinod FC
On Thursday, August 13, Qualifier Five includes:
- China Sun Stars FC vs Maryland United FC
- Austen Plus FC vs Bariga Stars FC
Qualifier Six concludes with:
- Diadem Stallion FC vs Zenith Emperor FC
- G Innovation FC vs Crystal FC
Lagos/Island Division Fixtures
On Friday, July 24, Qualifier One features:
- FC Bethel Sporting vs Dreamers FC
- Collins Edwin SC vs Prince Kazeem FC
Qualifier Two:
- 36 Lions FC vs Middlewell FC
- G-12 FC vs Goal Gether FC
On Thursday, August 6, Qualifier Three comprises:
- Emiloju FC vs Evolution United FA
- Team 360 FC vs Franceex United FC
Qualifier Four:
- Wasola FC vs Goal FC
- Vinod 99 FC vs Star To Be Academy FC
On Friday, August 14, Qualifier Five features:
- Young Strikers FC vs Peace FC
- Africano FC vs Middo Saka FA
On Saturday, August 15, Qualifier Six concludes with:
- Dominion Hotspur FC vs LOF United FC
- Devine Praise FC vs Prime Eleven FC
Badagry Division Fixtures
The Badagry qualifiers begin on Thursday, July 30.
Qualifier One:
- Vinmo Energy FC vs Budu Elite FA
- Ajuwa FA vs Kosas Phantom FC
Qualifier Two:
- ECAS FA vs BILDA FA
- Greenlock FC vs Dominion Excellent FA
On Saturday, August 8, Qualifier Three features:
- Emaljus FC vs Willyjoe-17 FA
- Young Pro FA vs Aux FC
Qualifier Four:
- Roro FC vs Legacy 340 SC
- Glorious Day FC vs JP Young Stars FC
On Thursday, August 20, Qualifier Five concludes with:
- Power of the Cross SA vs Edu Youth FC
- Royal Pharaoh FC vs Mega 22 FC
Epe Division Fixtures
Action begins on Friday, July 31.
Qualifier One:
- Ighalo FC vs Panther FC
- Pro Select FC vs Arich FC
Qualifier Two:
- Dolphin FC vs OOA FA
- Clique FA vs Daja FC
On Thursday, August 13, Qualifier Three features:
- Dynamic FC vs Luther FC
- De Potters FA vs Newhope FC
Road to the Group Stage
The qualifying series promises exciting contests as only the successful clubs from the various divisions will secure places in the 24-team group stage, where the race for the coveted 1xCup title will intensify.
With scouts, coaches and football enthusiasts expected to attend throughout the tournament, the 1xCup remains a vital platform for discovering the next generation of football stars. Over the years, the competition has continued to strengthen grassroots football, offering young players the opportunity to showcase their talents and earn pathways into professional football.
As the opening whistle draws closer, expectations are high that the 2026 edition will deliver thrilling football, fierce rivalries and another memorable chapter in the development of community football in Lagos State.
