Ghana’s Black Sharks defeated Nigeria’s Sand Eagles 5-4 on penalties after a 4-4 draw in the first leg of the 2026 CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Black Sharks held their nerve in the shootout to claim an important away victory and take an advantage into the return fixture.
Mawuli Sosu scored twice for Ghana, while Wise Nyamadi was also on target. Nigeria contributed to the Black Sharks’ total with an own goal in a closely fought contest.
The match remained level at 4-4 after regulation time and extra time, leaving penalties to decide the winner. Ghana then prevailed 5-4 from the spot despite sustained pressure from the Sand Eagles during the match.
The result gives Ghana a favourable position before the second leg in Keta. The Black Sharks will be aiming to protect their lead and complete the job by securing qualification for the 2026 CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal.
Nigeria will need to overturn the deficit in the return fixture if they are to keep their hopes of reaching the continental tournament alive.
The second leg is expected to be decisive, with Ghana seeking to build on their away success and finish the qualifying tie in their favour.