1xCup 2026: 24 teams remain as group-stage race intensifies

Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations on 1 October will coincide with another round of 1xCup 2026 fixtures, as the remaining teams continue their battle to reach the knockout stages.

The national holiday is traditionally marked by music, concerts, colourful parades and gatherings focused on freedom and unity. In Lagos, football supporters will also have the latest action from the tournament to follow, with 1xBet congratulating Nigerians and inviting fans to share in the occasion.

Of the 100 teams that entered the competition, 24 are still involved in the group stage. Players now have the chance to test themselves at a higher level and show supporters and scouts that they can compete in more demanding matches.

The tournament has already produced 50 goals in 18 games across its first two weeks, an average of almost three per match.

Dynamic FC came through a tense contest against AMA Smile FC, winning 3–2 despite nearly allowing a three-goal lead to disappear. The home side was 3–0 ahead by the 47th minute, but substitutes Obasi Nnamdi Daniel and Adeleye Emmanuel Odunayo scored in the 63rd and 68th minutes to set up a nervous finish. Dynamic FC held on for the points.

Ajuwa FA and Tonic FC shared four goals in another closely fought game. Emeka Sylvester put Ajuwa ahead in the 34th minute before Tonic FC turned the match around with two goals. Sylvester later provided the assist for Otto Paul to equalise, securing a 2–2 draw.

36 Lion FC have also impressed during the early stages. They followed a commanding 4–1 win against Ighalo FA with a much closer match against Maryland United FC, where Soumah Mohamed scored the only goal.

Collins Edwin SC recorded a 3–0 victory over ECAS FA after Liadi Shafihi Adisa scored twice inside the opening 16 minutes. Omosebi Damilare then added a third.

Group A tightly contested

Group A remains finely balanced after two matchdays, with only three points separating all four teams.

The table could shift on Independence Day when Vido play BYT Academical FC and Emiloju FC meet JP Young Stars. A victory for BYT would move them level with leaders Vido and increase the pressure in the qualification race.

Newhope Naija FC will face Crusaders FC in another important fixture, this time in Group B.

The group stage is due to conclude on 8 October, while the 1xCup 2026 final is scheduled for 31 October at 1pm at the Inspire Sports Arena, Cappa, Oshodi.

More matches are expected to add to the celebrations as Nigeria marks another year of independence, unity and freedom.