Ikpeme Backs Super Sand Eagles to Qualify for 2026 Beach Soccer AFCON

Posted : 12 October 2026

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme has expressed confidence that the Super Sand Eagles can qualify for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations despite their 3-3 draw against Ghana in the first leg of their qualifying tie.

The encounter took place at the Murtala Muhammed Square Beach Soccer Pitch in Kaduna on Saturday, October 10. The result leaves both teams level ahead of the return fixture, which will determine who advances to the continental championship in Senegal.

Ikpeme's optimism reflects the NFF's confidence in the team's ability to respond under pressure. Nigeria must now deliver a strong performance away from home against Ghana's Black Sharks, who will enjoy the backing of their supporters in the decisive encounter.

The first leg produced an entertaining contest, with Nigeria's Isa Hamza Manga scoring all three goals for the hosts to complete a hat-trick. Ghana responded through Mawuli Sosu, who scored twice, and Wise Nyamadi, who added the visitors' third goal.

The match also generated controversy after Moroccan referee Driss Lamghaidar and his assistants incorrectly ordered extra time and a penalty shootout following the 3-3 draw. The officials later admitted their error, confirming that the first-leg result stood and that qualification would be decided in Ghana.

The Super Sand Eagles will need to combine attacking efficiency with defensive discipline in the return leg. Their ability to limit Ghana's scoring opportunities and convert chances could prove decisive in the battle for qualification.

The second leg is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, at the Keta Emancipation Beach Soccer Arena in Ghana's Volta Region. Kick-off is set for 3 p.m. local time, with both teams seeking a place at the continental finals.

The 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place in Senegal from November 7 to 15. The tournament also serves as Africa's qualifying pathway to the 2027 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, increasing the importance of the Nigeria-Ghana contest.

Nigeria have won the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations twice, in 2006 and 2007, but have missed recent opportunities to strengthen their position on the international stage. Qualification would provide the Super Sand Eagles with another chance to compete for continental honours and pursue a return to the top level of the sport.

Ikpeme Backs Super Sand Eagles to Qualify for 2026 Beach Soccer AFCON

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