Nigeria crowned African champions in Beach Soccer

The Nigeria Beach Soccer team, the Sand Eagles, were on Sunday crowned champions of Africa as it defeated Cote d’Ivoire 7-4 in a thrilling final match at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2009 Qualifier in Durban, South Africa. The two teams, however, qualify to represent the continent at the Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai, United Emirates from November 16-22.

The victory over Cote d’Ivoire makes Nigeria African champions for the second time after the country won her first title in 2007. After emerging victorious from two group matches against Mauritius [0-13] and Egypt [6-5], Nigeria went on to beat Senegal 7-6 in the semi-final before completing its winning streak over the Sand Elephants. Nigeria’s Isiaka Olawale was named as the Player and the Top Goal scorer of the tournament with 12 goals, while Ivorian Goalkeeper, Kevin Enam was voted the best Keeper in the tournament.

Nigeria and Cote d Ivoire join other qualifiers around the world, which already includes Portugal,Switzerland, Russia, Spain and Italy from the European zone. Other teams that have also booked their places at the Beach Soccer World Cup billed to take place in Dubai later this year are Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay, which will represent the South American continent at the world’s premier beach soccer event for a fifth straight year.

Nigeria would be making an attempt to upstage the defending champions Brazil at this edition, after impressive performances at the 2006 and 2007 edition it participated in.