Nigeria’s Supersand Eagles will return from Mauritania by midnight, just past Monday night, after an impressive comeback win over their hosts on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Despite having little time to prepare, the Supersand Eagles delivered a strong performance away from home.
Nigeria shocked Mauritania with a 5-4 victory in a Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on Saturday. This was Nigeria’s first international game in five years, led by Coach Abdullahi Isa.
The match in Nouakchott was action-packed.
Experienced player Emeka Ogbonna scored after just two minutes and 14 seconds, setting a positive tone for Nigeria.
Shortly after, veteran Emmanuel Ohwoferia doubled the lead. Mauritania managed to reduce the gap, ending the first period 1-2.
In the second period, Mauritania scored twice to take the lead. However, Nigerian veteran Victor Tale equalized.
The hosts regained the lead early in the third period, but goals from Taiwo Adams and Tale secured the win for Nigeria, giving them momentum for the return leg.
The return leg will take place at Murtala Muhammed Square in Kaduna on Saturday afternoon.
Once back home, Coach Isa’s team will focus on the reverse fixture, scheduled for Saturday, July 27, in Nigeria.
A draw in the second match will be enough for the Supersand Eagles to qualify for the 2024 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.