By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s Super Sand Eagles will face reigning African champions Senegal in a high-profile two-match international friendly series in Kaduna as they intensify preparations for their crucial 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Ghana.
The two West African beach soccer giants will meet at the Murtala Muhammed Square Beach Soccer Arena, with the first leg scheduled for Saturday, October 3, and the return fixture on Monday, October 5. Both matches are billed for 4:00 p.m.
The Kaduna double-header offers Nigeria an important opportunity to test their strength against Africa’s most successful beach soccer nation before turning their attention to the decisive Ghana qualifiers.
Nigeria and Ghana were paired in the second round of the 2026 BSAFCON qualifiers following the draw conducted by the Confederation of African Football. The first leg is scheduled for October 9–11, while the return fixture will take place between October 16 and 18.
The winner of the two-legged tie will secure a place at the eight-team continental finals in Senegal, where the tournament is scheduled to hold from November 7 to 15.
Senegal have already secured automatic qualification as hosts and reigning champions. The Teranga Lions boast a record five African Beach Soccer Cup of Nations titles, having won the last five editions in 2016, 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024.
Nigeria, two-time African champions in 2007 and 2009, will be hoping to reclaim their place among the continent’s elite after missing the 2024 finals following their elimination by Mauritania in the qualifiers.
For the Super Sand Eagles, the meetings with Senegal will provide valuable competitive exposure, allowing the technical crew to assess the squad, sharpen their tactics and build momentum ahead of the Ghana showdown.
With a place at the continental finals and a pathway towards the 2027 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup at stake, Nigeria will be looking to make the Kaduna double-header count.
