The first of two friendly matches between the sides was played at the Murtala Muhammed Square Beach Soccer Pitch, with Nigeria putting up a strong challenge against the more experienced Senegalese side.
Senegal take the lead
Senegal opened the scoring through Laye Diagne, but the Sand Eagles responded quickly through Abdullahi Hassan to restore parity.
The contest remained competitive as both sides continued to attack, with Senegal eventually establishing an advantage through Mamadou Sylla, who completed a hat-trick. Ninou Jean-Paul Diatta and Asane Ba also got on the scoresheet for the African champions.
Hassan leads Nigeria's fightback
Abdullahi Hassan was the standout performer for Nigeria, scoring all four of the Sand Eagles’ goals.
His impressive individual display earned him the Man of the Match award, despite Nigeria ultimately falling short against the defending African champions.
Scorers
• Senegal: Laye Diagne; Mamadou Sylla 3; Ninou Jean-Paul Diatta; Asane Ba
• Nigeria: Abdullahi Hassan 4
Sand Eagles prepare for Ghana qualifier
The two-match series against Senegal forms part of Nigeria’s preparations for their upcoming CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie against Ghana.
Senegal, meanwhile, are using the friendlies to prepare for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, which they will host as defending champions.
The Sand Eagles will have an immediate opportunity to respond when the two teams meet again at the same venue on Monday morning.