1XCup 2026: Scouts From African, European, Asian Clubs To Attend Knockout Stage Matches

The organizers of the 1xCup 2026 have announced that scouts from African, European, and Asian clubs will attend the knockout stage matches of Lagos’s biggest grassroots football tournament.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the organizers announced ahead of the group stage draw at the Providence Hotel, Ikeja on Friday.

“Starting with the knockout stage, scouts from African, European, and Asian clubs will attend all 1xCup 2026 matches, so every gifted player will have the chance to prove his worth, catch the eye of coaches, and move closer to his dream of signing his first professional contract,” the statement read.

“The 1xCup 2026 is a unique sporting event that combines football with socially significant initiatives. Following the draw, the 24 clubs that have qualified will be divided into 6 groups of 4 teams each. They will continue to compete for spots in the knockout stage. Scouts from professional clubs will attend the games.

“The qualifying matches for the fourth season of the 1xCup treated fans to loads of thrilling moments and unpredictable outcomes. Nigeria’s best amateur football clubs fought for their dream and represented their communities with honor. The qualifiers determined the 24 strongest teams that will continue their quest for the 1xCup 2026 trophy and a ₦20 million prize pool.”

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Meanwhile, Diadem Stallion SC created something from nothing with their unique story of being standout contenders in the 1xCup 2026.

Diadem Stallion have gone from being an ordinary kickabout team to competing in the Nigerian FA Cup, serving as a springboard for many talented young players.

This distinctive club, with its rich history, made a spectacular return to the 1xCup 2026 and started with a 1-0 victory over Zenith Emperor, reminding fans that talent, resilience, fighting spirit, and belief in your teammates turn dreams into reality.

How It All Began

In the 1990s, Baba Oma laid the first brick in the foundation of a global sports project. He was driven by a dream of helping his community and set up a brilliant football team consisting of boys who, with eyes alight, would kick the ball about in the street, imagining that one day they would play in the world’s best stadiums.

Olu Olorunyomi later took charge of the team. Thanks to his dedication, training sessions became more than just playing football, but a school of discipline, character, and belief in one’s abilities. Until 2019, Olorunyomi helped young boys to grow and develop on their path to professional sport.

In 2020, a new era began for Diadem Stallion. The club was officially registered with the CAC, and two years later, made its debut in the Nigerian FA Cup. Thus, what had been just a group of boys kicking the ball around became a strong football organization with a clear development strategy, core values, and a rich history.

1xCup: Important Chapter In Diadem Stallion’s History

The club first made a name for itself at the 1xCup 2024. Diadem Stallion emerged as one of the tournament’s dark horses, making a remarkable journey from the qualifiers to the quarter-finals. That campaign demonstrated the team’s ambition and ability to compete on equal terms with Nigeria’s strongest grassroots clubs.

One of Diadem Stallion’s main priorities has always been the development of young players. Therefore, taking part in the fourth season of Nigeria’s top grassroots tournament was a natural continuation of the club’s mission.

Diadem Stallion began their 1xCup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Zenith Emperor, thanks to a goal from Jimoh Jelili, coming one step closer to qualifying for the group stage. The team displayed their determination and willingness to fight for the title.