BSAFCON 2026: NFF supports Super Sand Eagles to qualify for Beach Soccer AFCON

The Acting General Secretary of the Nigerian Football Federation, Emmanuel Ikpeme, has expressed confidence that the national Beach Soccer team, the Sand Eagles, will secure qualification for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (BSAFCON), despite a 3-3 draw against the Black Sharks of Ghana in the first leg played in Kaduna on Saturday.

Ikpeme acknowledged that Nigeria’s long absence from international beach football had affected the team’s competitive pace, but insisted there was still hope of securing a place at the continental championship.

“We haven’t played for a while in terms of international beach football. We have just restarted and our last competitive match was against Mauritania in a Beach Soccer AFCON qualifier two years ago. Beach football is a very tough game and there is a need for consistency in the training and development of players,” he said.

The NFF General Secretary assured the team of the NFF’s commitment to ensuring that the national beach football team receives the necessary support to compete effectively.

“I believe there is hope. During my time, I will work to ensure that I give the national beach football team all the support it needs,” he said.

With the draw at 3-3, Ikpeme believes the Sand Eagles have the opportunity to turn the game in their favor in the return match in Ghana.

“Luckily it was a drawn match. We go there with a clean slate. I spoke to the players and they gave me their word that when they go to Ghana, they will do what no one expects.

“The fighting spirit and commitment will be there. I have absolute faith in these players. If they go there and present themselves with the right verve, vibrancy and enthusiasm, there is no chance that we will not qualify for the Beach Soccer AFCON. I am sure they will turn the table around,” he said.

Ikpeme’s confidence comes as Nigeria prepares for the crucial return leg against the Black Sharks, with both teams looking to secure a place at the 2026 African Beach Soccer Cup of Nations.

The Sand Eagles will need to deliver a disciplined and determined performance in Ghana to overcome their opponents and punch their ticket to the final in Senegal later this year.