Star guests and two thrilling matches: What to expect from the 1xCup 2026 final

For over three months, 100 clubs from Lagos have been competing for the 1xCup 2026 title, a share of the N20 million prize pool, and the attention of scouts from professional clubs. The climax of Nigeria’s premier grassroots tournament is fast approaching. On October 31, the Inspire Sport Arena will host the decisive matches. The third-place match will kick off at 11:00, followed by the 1xCup 2026 final at 14:00.

Young Strikers FC vs Tonic FC: 1xCup 2026 title battle

The Future Builders have won the hearts of fans with their attacking style of football. Their matches are always major events and feature plenty of goals. Young Strikers FC have scored 21 goals in eight games, making them one of the highest-scoring teams in the 1xCup 2026. The team from Lagos Island has participated in all four seasons of the tournament and reached the semi-finals in 2023.

Waheed Kosoko’s team comfortably beat Peace FC and Africano FC in the qualifiers, topped their group and eliminated Dynamic FC, Emiloju and Collins Edwin SC in the knockout stage. Collins Edwin SC were among the main favourites for the fourth season.

The Future Builders’ main attacking force is promising forward Lawal Muiz, who has scored six goals and provided two assists in seven games. He has been named MVP twice and ranks among the tournament’s top three goalscorers. Another major contributor to the team’s success is Atanda Fuhad, the best playmaker of the 1xCup 2026. The midfielder has recorded five assists, one goal and one MVP award.

Tonic FC’s journey has inspired fans with its unpredictable twists and turns. The Fintech Club won both of their qualifying matches on penalties, beating Agbede Supreme FC and Vino Gano. After three draws in the group stage, many had written off Oladipupo Abiola’s side. However, the team continued to improve with every match and transformed from underdogs into serious contenders in the knockout stage.

In the round of 16, Tonic FC defeated 36 Lion FC, one of the main contenders for the 1xCup 2026 title. In the quarter-finals, the Fintech Club knocked out Joy Cometh FC 2-1 before defeating JP Young Stars in the semi-finals. Tonic FC are a young team known for their discipline and dedication.

Collins Edwin SC vs JP Young Stars FC: Bronze medal battle

The Gladiators have the best attack in the 1xCup 2026, having scored 22 goals in eight games. They were long considered tournament favourites but will now seek to bounce back from their semi-final defeat. The team hopes to deliver a strong performance in the third-place match and claim the ₦3 million cash prize.

Meanwhile, Collins Edwin SC goalkeeper Chidera Maduka has a strong chance of winning the Golden Glove, while defender Ejiofor Morgan and midfielder Adedayo Ibrahim could be shortlisted for the tournament’s MVP award. Forward Obiora Sunny has also been impressive, scoring six goals and providing five assists in eight matches.

However, JP Young Stars FC should not be underestimated. The Eagles treated fans to one of the tournament’s most remarkable comebacks, drawing level within 10 minutes after trailing 3-1 against Inspire SA. JP Young Stars FC took the game to a penalty shoot-out, where they prevailed over their opponents. The team is capable of putting up a strong fight against Collins Edwin SC.

Star guests at the 1xCup 2026 final matches

Special guests will watch the tournament’s decisive matches from the stands. Among them will be Odion Ighalo, a former Watford and Manchester United player who also represented Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations. His football journey began on the streets of Lagos before taking him to some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Odion Ighalo embodies the values of the 1xCup.

Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, will also be in attendance. He is actively involved in developing grassroots sports in Nigeria and sees the 1xCup 2026 as a springboard for young, talented players seeking to break into professional football.

The country’s premier grassroots competition brings together teams from across Lagos. Therefore, the decisive matches will also feature the involvement of Tijani Fatai, the 42nd Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, who promotes effective dialogue between communities and law enforcement agencies.

Don’t miss the decisive matches of the 1xCup 2026. Come to the stadium or watch the live stream on YouTube to support your favourites!

Fixtures: https://1xcup.ng/fixtures