Ikpeme confident Sand Eagles can qualify for 2026 Beach Soccer AFCON

Nigeria Football Federation Acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme believes the Sand Eagles can secure qualification for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, despite their 3-3 draw with Ghana’s Black Stars in the opening leg of their qualifying tie.

The sides could not be separated in Kaduna on Saturday, leaving the qualification contest evenly poised before the return leg. Nigeria must now produce a positive result in the second meeting to reach the continental tournament.

Ikpeme acknowledged that the Sand Eagles’ lengthy absence from international beach soccer had disrupted their competitive rhythm. However, he remains confident Nigeria has enough opportunity to overcome Ghana and reach the finals.

“We have not played the game for some time in terms of international beach soccer. We have just resumed, and our last competitive match was against Mauritania in a Beach Soccer AFCON qualifying tie two years ago,” Ikpeme told thenff.com.

The NFF official said the lack of regular international competition had made the task more difficult, while stressing that beach soccer required sustained preparation and player development.

“Beach soccer is a very tough game, and there is a need for consistency in the training and development of the players,” he said.

Nigeria’s prospects will now depend on the performance in the return fixture, with the first-leg draw ensuring that neither side gained an advantage in the tie. Ikpeme maintained that the Sand Eagles could still achieve their qualification objective if they receive the appropriate backing.

He also reaffirmed the federation’s intention to support the national beach soccer team as it works to rebuild its competitiveness on the international stage.

“I believe there is hope. During my time, I will work to ensure that we give the beach soccer national team all the necessary support,” he added.

Ikpeme said prioritising that support would be central to helping the Sand Eagles compete effectively against Ghana and secure their place at the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.