Applications for the highly anticipated 1xCup 2025 amateur football tournament open today, June 2, giving football teams in Lagos State the opportunity to compete for a share of the ₦20 million prize pool.

The tournament, organized by global bookmaker 1xBet, will run from July to October 2025, with the registration window remaining open until June 22. The final list of participating teams will be announced on July 3.

Expanded Tournament Format

This year's edition will feature 64 teams in the main stage—24 more than in 2024—highlighting the growing popularity of the competition. The tournament will begin with a group stage in July, followed by playoff rounds, and culminate in the final match on October 9.

The champions will take home ₦10 million, half of the total prize pool. Individual awards will also be presented for top scorer, MVP, best goal, best goalkeeper, best team, best coach, and fan favorite.

In a special incentive, the player who scores the tournament's best goal will win a trip to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December 2025 with Bi Benard.

Eligibility and Application Process

Only football clubs based in Lagos State are eligible to participate, and all players must be at least 18 years old. Interested teams can apply through the official tournament website at https://1xcup.ng/.

The competition has seen significant growth since its inception. In 2023, over 40 teams participated, with Bariga FC claiming the title and ₦1 million in prize money. By 2024, the prize pool had increased to ₦20 million, with FC Bethel Sporting emerging as champions and taking home ₦10 million.

Impact Beyond Competition

The tournament has already made a meaningful impact on Nigerian football. Last year's top scorer, Nwanna Okechukwu, went on to sign a professional contract with Ikorodu City, demonstrating how the competition can serve as a pathway to professional football.

The 2024 edition attracted over 160 applications, from which the 40 best teams were selected, underscoring the tournament's significance in local communities.

"1xCup has become a tradition that teams from all over Nigeria aspire to. We are excited to open the doors again to new heroes," said the 1xBet press office in a statement.

As the tournament continues to grow, 1xBet aims to ensure it remains a platform that not only showcases football talent but also unifies communities and provides opportunities for amateur players to realize their football dreams.