Anambra crowned NBSL champions after dramatic shootout win over Kebbi Fishers
Anambra Beach Soccer Warriors etched their name into Nigerian beach soccer history on Sunday, clinching their first Nigeria Beach Soccer League (NBSL) title with a thrilling 5-3 penalty shootout victory over defending champions Kebbi Fishers.
The pulsating final at Jabi Lake Resort in Abuja ended 3-3 in regulation time, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
The Warriors, based in Nnewi, surged to a 3-1 lead with goals from Ekunjimi Eganosi, Peter Prosper, and Stanley Ekwo. But Kebbi Fishers, the league’s most decorated side with three titles, mounted a spirited comeback through strikes from Hassan Abdullahi, Taiwo Adams, and Hassan Muhammed to force penalties.
In front of a distinguished crowd that included NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, and Beach Soccer Committee Chairman Rt. Hon. Nse Udofot Essien, Anambra held their nerve in the shootout to emerge champions and join Kada BSC as the only other team to lift the trophy since the league’s inception.
Gusau praised the teams for their sportsmanship and the league’s growing stature, saying, ‘This year’s league has been a remarkable display of exceptional talent and competitive spirit, underscoring the growth of beach soccer in Nigeria.’
Individual awards capped off the season’s excellence:
Highest Goal Scorer: Frank Dozie (Kada BSC) – 14 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Segun Basorun (Anambra BSW)
Rising Star: Uwana Aniete (Ibom BSC)
