Isa: The friendlies with Senegal are a good test for the Sand Eagles

Nigeria Sand Eagles head coach Abdullahi Isa has described the team’s two friendly matches against Senegal as a crucial test ahead of the Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (BSAFCON) qualifying clash against Ghana’s Black Sharks.

Isa expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, for inviting Senegal to Nigeria for the two-match series, saying the games would provide valuable preparation for the Sand Eagles, who return to competitive action after a period of inactivity.

“The matches provide an opportunity to reunite with old friends, including Senegal coach Med Jean Sylla and captain Al Seyni Ndiaye. I want to thank the NFF for this commendable initiative and also thank the Senegal team for accepting the invitation,” Isa said.

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“These matches will go a long way in helping the Sand Eagles prepare for the upcoming playoffs.”

The coach also welcomed the opportunity to test his team against Senegal, Africa’s defending champions and record holders, describing them as a quality opponent.

“Playing against the defending and record champions is a good test for Nigeria. Historically, our matches have always been important. We have faced Senegal several times; they have beaten us and we have also beaten them,” Isa said.

The Sand Eagles hope to use the friendly series to sharpen their competitive edge and fine-tune their preparations ahead of the crucial BSAFCON qualifier against Ghana.