Nigeria’s return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended in disappointment as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in their opening Group C match on Tuesday evening, Reports.
Playing at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar City, the Super Eagles—making their first CHAN appearance since 2018—were undone by a late goal from Christian Gomis, who pounced on a defensive lapse to seal victory for the Lions of Teranga.
Despite dominating possession in the first half, Nigeria failed to convert their control into meaningful chances.
Their only effort on target came through striker Sikiru Alimi, whose shot was comfortably dealt with by Senegalese goalkeeper Marc Diouf.
On the other end, Senegal’s Libasse Gueye and Daouda Ba threatened but couldn’t find the breakthrough.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 75th minute when substitute Moctar Koita took advantage of poor communication in Nigeria’s backline to set up Gomis, who calmly slotted into an empty net.
Coach Salisu Yusuf’s side rallied late in search of an equaliser, but their efforts lacked precision and urgency, leaving them with no points after Matchday 1.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to a crucial second group game against Sudan on August 12, knowing that anything less than a win could severely dent their qualification hopes.
Senegal, meanwhile, can secure a quarter-final place with victory over Congo in their next outing.
Ahead of the match, Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo downplayed the pressure of defending the title, instead framing the campaign as an opportunity to win another trophy. “We respect every team in this group, including Nigeria. African football no longer has clear favourites,” he said.
For Nigeria, the task is now clear: bounce back quickly or risk another early exit from the continental stage.
