Christopher Kadiri Backs Super Sand Eagles to Beat Ghana in AFCON Qualifier Second Leg

Nigeria’s Super Sand Eagles assistant coach Christopher Kadiri remains confident Nigeria can overcome Ghana’s Black Sharks in the second leg of the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after both teams played out a 3-3 draw in the first leg.

Kadiri described the encounter as a keenly contested match, noting that the Nigerian side had worked hard in preparation for the fixture with the aim of securing victory.

“It was a very nice match. There is destiny that played a role in its own because we worked very hard for this match to see that we come out victorious,” he said.

Despite Nigeria’s failure to secure a first-leg win, the assistant coach expressed belief in the team’s ability to turn the tie around in Keta, Ghana, and book a place at the continental tournament.

“When it goes the other way, I believe we can beat Ghana in Keta and qualify. We will work towards that,” Kadiri added.

The coach identified defensive concentration as a key area Nigeria must improve ahead of the return fixture, while praising the attackers for their efforts in the match.

“Mostly, our concentration level in the defence. Our attackers did well, but we have to work seriously on the defence to see what we can do,” he said.

Kadiri also acknowledged Ghana’s experience, describing the contest as evenly balanced and praising the Black Sharks for their discipline and ability to avoid unnecessary mistakes.

“It was 50/50, but the Ghanaians are very experienced, so they don’t commit easily,” he noted.

Nigeria will now focus on correcting their defensive lapses and improving their overall performance ahead of the decisive return leg in Keta, where the Super Sand Eagles must deliver a strong display to secure qualification for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.