1xCup Awards Night 2026: 17 awards and season’s heroes

On November 6, Lagos hosted the 1xCup Awards Night 2026, marking the end of the tournament's fourth season. Six days after the final, players, coaches, officials, reporters, and supporters gathered to learn the names of top performers and relive memorable moments. The organizers presented 17 awards, honoring players, managers, officials, and spectators.

Young Strikers FC founder Waheed Kosoko received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to grassroots football, though he could not attend due to health reasons. Young Strikers FC was named the tournament's best team, winning 300,000 naira in prize money. Its 17-year-old forward, Lawal Muiz, was named the tournament's MVP with six goals.

Young Strikers FC goalkeeper Afeez Shittu won two awards, including the Best Save of the Season and the Golden Glove. Ezeji Ikenna of Ighalo FA won the Golden Boot with nine goals. Tonic FC, debutants, won the Best Coach of the Tournament award after leading Tonic FC to their first 1xCup title. Their goalkeeper, Femi Adegboyega, was also awarded the Best Referee.

Inspire SA received three awards, including the Goal of the Tournament and recognition for its fans as the 1xCup's 12th Man. The tournament showcased the popularity of grassroots football in Lagos, with nearly 400 applications and 20 million naira in prize money. Many players who participated in the 1xCup have now progressed to professional football, with over 30 reaching that level.

The 1xCup proved that a first-time participant can achieve great success, as seen in Tonic FC's rapid rise to champions.