Nigeria Sand Eagles head coach Abdullahi Isa says the two-match series against Senegal will provide crucial preparation for the team’s Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations (BSAFCON) qualifying tie with Ghana.
The Sand Eagles have not played recently and will use the friendlies to regain match sharpness before facing the Black Sharks of Ghana. Isa thanked the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for inviting Senegal, while also expressing his appreciation to the Senegalese Football Federation for accepting the proposal.
“The matches provide an opportunity to reunite with old friends, including Senegal head coach Med Jean Sylla and captain Al Seyni Ndiaye,” said Isa.
“I want to thank the NFF for the commendable initiative and also appreciate Team Senegal for turning up. These matches will help the Sand Eagles’ preparations in a big way.”
Isa believes Senegal, the defending and record African champions, will offer Nigeria a demanding test.
“Playing against the defending and record champions is a good test match for Nigeria. Historically, the games are important. We have met Senegal several times. They have beaten us and we have also beaten them,” he said.
Senegal coach Med Jean Sylla said the fixtures would benefit both sides as they prepare for their respective continental commitments.
“We are happy to be in Nigeria and feel like we are at home. This is not our first time in the country,” said Sylla.
“These matches are important to both teams and Africa due to the history and pedigree. It is also an important preparation for the team.”
Sylla also welcomed the reunion with Isa, explaining that they had played together alongside Nigeria captain Victor Tale. He added that he was pleased to see Tale still competing, like Senegal captain Al Seyni Ndiaye.
Senegal will use the matches as part of their preparations for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, which they will host as defending champions from 7th–15th November this year.
The Senegal delegation, comprising 12 players and six officials, arrived in Abuja on Thursday evening before travelling to Kaduna on Friday morning.
NFF Acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme praised the Kaduna State Government for its support and encouragement for the Sand Eagles and their preparations for the Ghana qualifier.
Nigeria squad: Victor Tale, Nuhu Aiki, Godwin Tale, Taiwo Adams, Hamza Isa, Emmanuel Ohwoferia, Clement Eganosi, Godspower Igudia, Dozie Frank, Stanley Ekwe, Ekene Obi, Hassan Abdullahi
Senegal squad: Alseyni Ndiaye, Ousseynou Faye, Jean-Paul Ninou Diatta, Seydina Mame Gadiaga, Pape Sidy Fall, Sanou Laye Thiaw, Assane Ba, Mamadou Sylla, Seydina Laye Diagne, Libasse Mbaye, Pape Mamour Diagne, Babacar Niang
Nigeria v Senegal
First leg: Saturday, October 3, 2026, Murtala Muhammed Square, 5:00 pm
Second leg: Monday, October 5, 2026, Murtala Muhammed Square, 9:00 am