Beach Soccer: Anambra Warriors Clinch Maiden NBSL Title

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The 2025 Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) Super Finals ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday at Jabi Lake Park, Abuja, as Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors were crowned champions after a pulsating encounter that went down to the wire.

The Warriors edged defending champions Kebbi Fishers BSC 5–3 on penalties after both sides played out a tense 1–1 draw in regulation time, to lift their first-ever national beach soccer title.

The grand finale, which wrapped up the fifth season of the NBSL and the second under the supervision of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), attracted an impressive array of football dignitaries including NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, Director of Communications Dr. Olajire Ademola, and former Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen, among others.

Speaking after the match, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau commended all participating teams for their sportsmanship and commitment throughout the season.

> “This year’s league showcased exceptional talent and competitive spirit, underscoring the steady growth of beach soccer in Nigeria,” Gusau said.

“We congratulate Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors on their historic victory and urge other teams to keep pushing the boundaries of excellence.”

Rt. Hon. Nse Essien, Chairman Committee on Futsal and Beach Soccer, applauded the NFF for its continued efforts in professionalizing beach soccer nationwide, noting that the Federation’s takeover has brought renewed direction and credibility to the league.

> “This is the first time we are hosting the Super Finals in Abuja, but it’s already the fifth season overall,” he said.

“The NFF has shown tremendous leadership since taking charge, and the national team coach has discovered many promising talents who can bolster the Super Sand Eagles.”

Essien emphasized the need for grassroots development of the sport across schools and local communities, highlighting its accessibility and global potential.

“Beach soccer can be played anywhere — barefoot, on the streets, or at the beach. There’s enormous untapped talent across Nigeria,” he said.

“FIFA has also begun promoting the women’s game, and this year we featured an exhibition match for female teams. We’re gradually building a full ecosystem for the sport.”

He expressed optimism that Nigeria would soon not only qualify for but also win the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

NBSL National Coordinator Mahmoud Hadejia described the 2025 edition as one of the best-organized beach soccer events in Africa, lauding the NFF, sponsors, and media for their support.

> “It’s been a long time coming for Abuja, and within two weeks, we managed to deliver one of the finest beach soccer finals on the continent,” Hadejia said.

“This is the best-run beach soccer league in Africa and among the fastest-growing in the world.”

He congratulated Anambra Warriors for their triumph, noting that the league has become a vital platform for discovering and nurturing young talents across Nigeria.

> “When we kicked off in March, many of our standout players were young — from Kebbi, Kaduna, and Anambra. Their performances show that the future of Nigerian beach soccer is bright,” he added.

Hadejia revealed that the NBSL will continue to expand its reach, with local tournaments planned across states and universities to further promote the game.

> “We’re taking beach soccer to more states and schools. Our next stop is Jos, where we’ll stage a demonstration during the NUGA Games,” he announced.

“The ultimate goal is to make beach soccer part of the National Sports Festival, and discussions are already ongoing with the Sports Commission.”

The closing ceremony also featured an All-Star Charity Match between Beach Soccer All Stars and Abuja Football All Stars, which ended 1–0 in favor of the Abuja team.

In addition to the championship, several players received individual honors for their outstanding performances:

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 (MVP): Stanley Ekwo (Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors)

With the victory, Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors wrote their names in history as first-time champions, while Kebbi Fishers BSC remain the most successful side in NBSL history with three titles.

The 2025 NBSL season not only showcased the rising standard of beach soccer in Nigeria but also reaffirmed the sport’s potential as one of the nation’s fastest-growing disciplines — blending entertainment, community engagement, and national pride.