1xCup 2026 qualifiers see high scoring in opening matches

The 1xCup 2026 qualifiers have commenced with high scoring, recording 78 goals across 24 matches in the first six matchdays. The fourth edition of this grassroots tournament features 48 teams in the qualifying stage, averaging over three goals per game.

Standout performances include Dosu Joseph FC's 5–1 victory over Ikosi FC, OOA FA's 6–2 win against Ikoyi Dolphin FC, and Ighalo FA's 5–0 win over Panthers FA. The competition has been marked by both decisive wins and narrow margins, with six matches decided by penalty shootouts.

Individual highlights include Oladapo Albert of Vinmo Energy FC, who leads the scoring charts following a hat-trick, and John David Kelechi of Daja United, who earned Player of the Match honors after scoring twice in his debut.