Former Super Sand Eagles captain Isiaka Olawale has warned that Nigeria face a difficult challenge against Ghana in the return leg of their Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, but insists the team must remain optimistic and fight for qualification.
Olawale acknowledged the quality of Ghana’s Black Sharks, pointing to their impressive performance in Nigeria as evidence that the Sand Eagles cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.
“It’s going to be a very tough game for them because I know Ghana people are not pushovers,” Olawale said.
“If they can come to Nigeria and then get a draw in Kaduna, that means they are also a very, very good side.”
The former captain believes Nigeria still have a chance of progressing despite the disappointing home result, stressing that beach soccer remains unpredictable.
“As for me, as a Nigerian, I believe if they can put their heads together, because this is beach soccer, anything can happen,” he explained.
Olawale urged the players to demonstrate greater unity and commitment in the decisive encounter, insisting that collective effort will be essential to overcoming Ghana.
“They just have to try, put their hearts together and then work as a team,” he stated.
He also challenged the squad to recognise the importance of the occasion and approach the match with determination.
“It’s now or never, because this is another opportunity for them,” Olawale declared.
The Sand Eagles are seeking a return to the continental championship following a period of limited international participation, making the qualification tie particularly significant for Nigeria’s beach soccer revival.
Olawale believes the players understand what is at stake and can still deliver a result that will make the country proud.
“They know what is at stake. They can do Nigeria proud on Sunday,” he said.
“And by the grace of God, they will finish the job in Ghana.”
For Olawale, Ghana’s first-leg performance demands respect, but Nigeria must not surrender its qualification hopes before the final whistle.
