FC Bethel Sporting has emerged victorious as the supreme champions of the highly anticipated second edition of the prestigious 1Xbet Cup. The thrilling conclusion took place on Thursday at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena Stadium in Lagos, amidst an electrifying atmosphere.
The exhilarating final match witnessed FC Bethel Sporting edge out Gunners link FC by a nail-biting margin of 2-1, leaving the packed stadium in awe. The impressive turnout included an array of distinguished personalities, notably former Lagos Deputy Governor, Femi Pedro; Super Eagles coach, Augustine Eguavoen; legendary former Super Falcons captain, Desire Oparanozie, football expert, Aisha Falode, BBNaija stars Mike Edwards and Frodd, Content creators Bi Benard, SuO alongside numerous other esteemed guests.
The triumphant FC Bethel Sporting team was crowned champions, basking in the adoration of the enthusiastic crowd and solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the football arena.
After the match, FC Bethel Sporting coach Nathaniel Olagunju said: “We worked hard for this, and bookmakers tipped us to be champions. And here we are, our hard work paid off.
“At halftime, I told my team all we needed was one goal to restore our confidence and philosophy. But we scored two goals. In grassroots football, scoring two goals doesn’t guarantee a win, so we didn’t relax.”
Regarding his opponent, Coach Olagunju said: “I think they’re a good side. We’ve played each other in several tournaments and know each other well. They won 2-1 in the group stage of this competition, but we were confident we’d be champions. We had opportunities, and we took it.”
Despite losing in the final, Gunner’s Link FC coach, Adefila Careca, said he remains proud of this team.
“I am proud of my boys. In football, you win some and lose some. Unfortunately, we lost the final to FC Bethel Sporting. We respected them as a team and gave them a run for their money.” the coach stated.
Okechukwu Nnana of FC Bethel Sporting won the highest goal scorer award, while Emiloju’s Ebuka Enoh took home the best goalkeeper honour. Caleb Okereke of FC Bethel Sporting was named Most Valuable Player.
FC Bethel Sporting also claimed the best and most well-behaved team awards, with Coach Olagunju earning the best coach title. Emiloju’s Nathaniel Olagunju won the goal of the tournament award.
The winners received N10 million, while the beaten finalist was rewarded with N5 million.
The third-place finishers, Emaljus FC, took home N3 million after defeating Emiloju FC 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
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One of the spectators who identified himself as Kazeem Adegbola said he was highly impressed with the structure of the event and the quality of football displayed throughout the tournament.
Another spectator who identified herself as Damilola said: “I was invited by my friend and I truly enjoyed myself. The atmosphere was electrifying. Even as I don’t really watch football, the matches I witnessed today have ignited my interest in football.”
“It was really entertaining; it was a blend of young and old. The older ones brought experience while the younger boys brought energy. The quality of talents we have in our country is not in doubt; I have seen some talented players that will go far.”
Wahidi Akanni, chairman of Match International and Tournament Director of the tournament, noted the high quality of play, saying, “These boys can be nurtured to play for Nigeria.”
According to him, the 1XCUP competition has reignited hope for many young Nigerian footballers, while also serving as a vital platform for uncovering new talent and cultivating future football legends.
