1xCup 2025: Ikorodu City, ISAGT clinch quarterfinal spots as wild card race heats up

The 1xCup 2025 group stage took a dramatic turn during Week 4 as two teams booked their tickets to the quarter-finals while others saw qualification hopes dashed in nail-biting fashion.

Ikorodu City FA advanced to the quarter-finals after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Young Strikers FA.

The Lagos-based side conceded their first goal of the tournament in stunning fashion — a Ronaldinho-esque lob reminiscent of the 2002 World Cup — but held on in the closing minutes to secure the vital point.

Meanwhile, G-Innovation FC defeated Ecas FA 1-0, vaulting from fifth to second place. However, their advancement now hinges on the results of other group matches.

ISAGT topped Group C after a tense 1-1 draw with Utility FC, having scored first and then defending resolutely.

In the second match, Dosu Joseph FC delivered a commanding 3-0 win over Soccer Cardinals FA — a result that not only earned them a Wild Card spot but also crushed the Cardinals’ hopes, especially after a missed penalty at 0-1.

Collins Edwin FA continued their dominant form with a 3-2 victory over Nath Boys FA, highlighted by an audacious long-range goal from the center circle.

Nath Boys only needed a draw to qualify but were undone early and couldn’t recover.

In the same group, 36 Lions FC claimed their first win — a 1-0 result over Africano FA — moving to third place and eliminating Africano from the competition.

Inspire Sport Academy (ISA) needed just a draw to top Group D but were edged out 2-1 by Vinmo Energy FC, despite briefly equalizing in the second half.

ISA's loss left the door open, and FC Bethel Sporting took advantage, defeating Brighton FC 2-1 to secure their Wild Card spot. Brighton FC bowed out as the only team to lose all their matches.

With just three group games left, the Wild Card race remains wide open:

Community Gunners FC must win to reach the Wild Card round — and could even top the group with a five-goal margin over Africano FA.

Emaljus FC vs Young Strikers FA promises high drama: a draw sends both teams through; a loss eliminates one.

FC Bethel Sporting vs Vinmo Energy FC will decide Group D’s winner. Vinmo need a win, while the reigning champions must win by five goals to top the table.

As the tension rises, fans can follow all updates and analysis on the official tournament site, 1xcup.ng - the official website with all the information about the tournament.

The more you know, the higher your chances of placing winning bets on the 1xCup 2025 on the 1xBet platform.