Nigeria Claims Men's and Women's Titles At Zone 3 Beach Volleyball Qualifiers

Nigeria Claims Men's and Women's Titles At Zone 3 Beach Volleyball Qualifiers

By Our Reporter 

Nigeria reaffirmed its status as a regional beach volleyball powerhouse after winning both the men's and women's titles at the 2026 African Nations Cup Zone 3 Beach Volleyball Qualifiers held in Badagry, Lagos State, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Competing before enthusiastic home supporters, the host nation produced outstanding performances in both categories to complete a clean sweep of the championships. Ghana finished as runners-up in the men's and women's events, while Niger Republic secured the men's bronze medal and Côte d'Ivoire claimed third place in the women's competition.

The men's final between Nigeria and Ghana delivered a thrilling spectacle, with the title decided by a dramatic golden set after both countries shared victories in their opening matches.

Nigeria's first pair staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Ghana I 2-1. After narrowly losing the opening set 20-22, the Nigerian duo responded emphatically by taking the second set 21-14 before edging the deciding set 15-13.

Ghana, however, fought back through its second pair, which defeated Nigeria II in straight sets, 21-16, 23-21, to level the contest and force a decisive golden set.

With the championship on the line, the Nigerian team held its composure to record a hard-fought 15-13 victory in the golden set, sealing the Zone 3 men's title and sparking jubilant celebrations among the home fans.

Earlier, the battle for the men's bronze medal also went the distance. Benin's first pair defeated Niger Republic I 2-1 (21-13, 18-21, 15-7), but Niger Republic responded as its second pair overcame Benin II 2-0 (21-15, 21-18) to force another golden set. Niger Republic dominated the decider, winning 15-7 to secure the bronze medal.

In the women's competition, Nigeria completed a memorable campaign by capturing the gold medal, with Ghana finishing second and Côte d'Ivoire taking bronze.

Final Medal Standings

Men

- Gold: Nigeria

- Silver: Ghana

- Bronze: Niger Republic

Women

- Gold: Nigeria

- Silver: Ghana

- Bronze: Côte d'Ivoire

Nigeria's impressive showing at the Zone 3 Qualifiers highlights the country's growing dominance in beach volleyball across West Africa and provides a significant boost ahead of the 2026 African Nations Cup, where both teams will be aiming to build on their regional success.