Ghana’s Black Sharks played out an entertaining 3-3 draw with Nigeria in the first leg of their 2026 CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kaduna.
The closely contested encounter at the Murtala Mohammed Square saw both teams showcase their attacking strengths, leaving the qualification tie finely balanced ahead of the return fixture in Ghana.
Nigeria’s Isa Hamza Manga was the standout performer for the hosts, scoring all three goals to complete a hat-trick and pose a constant threat to the Ghanaian defence.
The Black Sharks, however, demonstrated resilience to remain in contention, with Mawuli Sosu scoring twice before Wise Nyamadi added another goal to secure a draw for the visitors.
The result means neither side has gained an advantage heading into the second leg, setting the stage for a decisive encounter in Keta.
Ghana will host Nigeria on Sunday, October 18, with the Black Sharks hoping to capitalise on home advantage to secure qualification for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal.
The team will need another disciplined performance and greater defensive organisation to contain Manga, who proved difficult to handle in the opening leg.
At the same time, Sosu and Nyamadi will be expected to maintain their attacking threat as Ghana seek to turn the tie in their favour.
