Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors are the new king of beach soccer in Nigeria, following a nail-biting penalty shootout defeat of Cup holders Kebbi Fishers in Sunday’s well-attended final at the Jabi Lake Resort, Abuja. Regulation time had ended in a pulsating 3-3 draw.
The Warriors secured the title following a 5-3 penalty shootout victory over three-time champions, Kebbi Fishers BSC.
The Cup holders came from 1-3 down to showcase commendable resilience and force the game into penalties.
For the Kebbi-based team, goals were scored by Hassan Abdullahi, Taiwo Adams, and Hassan Muhammed. The Nnewi-based Warriors saw contributions from Ekunjimi Eganosi, Peter Prosper, and Stanley Ekwo.
This victory marks the first league title for Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors, bringing them level with Kada BSC, who were crowned champions in 2022.
Meanwhile, Kebbi Fishers BSC remains the most decorated team in league history with three titles. In addition to the championship, several individual accolades were awarded:
. Highest Goal Scorer: Frank Dozie (Kada BSC) – 14 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Segun Basorun (Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors)
. Rising Star: Uwana Aniete (Ibom BSC)
. Most Valuable Player: Stanley Ekwo (Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors)
In his remarks, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau praised all participating teams for their sportsmanship and unwavering dedication to the sport, saying: “This year’s league has been a remarkable display of exceptional talent and competitive spirit, underscoring the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors on their historic triumph and encourage all the other teams to continue striving for excellence going forward.”
President of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi and NFF Executive Member and Chairman, Beach Soccer and Futsal Committee, Nse Udofot Essien were among dignitaries who showed up at the exciting finale.
There were also Chief of Staff to the Chairman, National Sports Commission (Mallam Salihu Abubakar), NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen, NFF Director of Media & Communications, Ademola Olajire, special assistant to NFF President Abubakar Danladi Umar, and former FIFA referee Alex Mana.
This year’s league highlighted exceptional talent and competitive spirit, reflecting the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria.