The 1xBet Cup Nigeria 2024, the country’s largest amateur football tournament, is set for an exciting conclusion this Thursday, September 26, at MJ Arena, Onikan. This year’s edition, which has seen tremendous growth and enthusiasm, promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for grassroots football fans across the country.
Grassroots Football Takes Centre Stage
The success of the inaugural edition of the 1xBet Cup inspired the organisers to elevate the tournament’s status, with a renewed focus on grassroots football development in Nigeria. The 1xBet team ensured that all aspects of the competition, from the players to the fans, felt involved in the growing football culture. As part of this strategy, a dedicated tournament website was launched to keep pace with increasing media and fan interest. The demand for news and updates about participating teams was so high that 1xBet even opened a line for betting on the matches.
The tournament’s digital presence extended across social media, with training sessions, interviews, and match clips shared widely. Over 500 fans took part in competitions hosted on the 1xBet Cup 2024 social media pages, with winners walking away with promo codes worth 5,000 NGN and headphones. The growing excitement also attracted several notable Nigerian figures, including blogger Bi Benard, the country’s first female football commentator Suo Chapele, and former Super Eagles winger Wasiu Ipaye.
Big Prizes and High Stakes
This year’s tournament saw a significant increase in prize money, with the total rising from 5,000,000 NGN in 2023 to 20,000,000 NGN in 2024. Additionally, in a move to further motivate the players, the organisers introduced a ‘Best Player’ award for each match, an innovation aimed at recognising individual brilliance.
Why You Should Attend the Final
Thursday’s final at MJ Arena promises not only intense football but also a day filled with entertainment. Fans will enjoy free entry, and the event will feature competitions with valuable prizes, performances from renowned entertainers, and an opportunity to mingle with celebrities, brand ambassadors, and influencers over cocktails and snacks.
The Road to the Final
The tournament’s final showdown will see Gunners Link FC face FC Bethel Sporting, with both teams earning their spots after gruelling penalty shootouts in the semi-finals. Gunners Link FC secured their place after overcoming Emaljus FC in a dramatic shootout, despite missing a crucial penalty during the match. Their coach, Adefila Careca, remains focused on one goal: “We are here only for the cup, and this is our goal – not a dream, but a goal!”
FC Bethel Sporting, on the other hand, are motivated not only by their pursuit of the title but also by a desire for revenge after a previous loss to Gunners Link FC in the group stages. Their journey included knocking out the 2023 champions, SB LFC, in the quarterfinals, proving that they are serious contenders for the trophy.
Before the grand finale, the third-place playoff will take place between Emaljus FC and Emiloju FC at 1:00 p.m., followed by the final at 3:00 p.m.
For fans of grassroots football, the 1xBet Cup Nigeria 2024 final is not to be missed. Come and witness the thrilling conclusion to this year’s tournament as Nigeria’s amateur football scene continues to grow from strength to strength.
