SENEGAL BEATS NIGERIA IN CHAN OPENER

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria lost 1-0 to Senegal in their opening Group D match at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), played on Tuesday at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.

The Super Eagles had more of the ball with 58.1 percent possession, but they could not make it count as Senegal scored late to claim all three points.

The game was closely fought from the start, and both teams struggled to create clear chances. Nigeria kept things tight for most of the match, and there were plenty of midfield battles and fouls on both sides.

But in the 75th minute, a defensive mistake proved costly. Koité picked up a loose ball near the edge of the box and went past Nigeria’s goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal. He then passed to Gomis, who scored into an empty net to give Senegal the lead.

Nigeria started the match in a 4-4-2 formation. Mustapha Lawal was in goal, while Junior Harrison Nduka, who captained the team, lined up in defence alongside Ngengen Leonard, Adedayo Olamilekan, and Akanni Qudus. Jabbar Malik, Ismaila, Taiwo, and Alimi played in midfield, and Anthony paired with Ijoma Anthony in attack.

The Super Eagles tried to fight back after the goal. Malik, who got injured, and Akanni were both taken off, and Shola Adelani and Vincent Temitope came on. But even with the changes, Nigeria could not break down Senegal’s defence.

Nigeria had a short spell of control earlier in the second half, but they did not take the few chances they had. And as the clock ticked down, Senegal held on to their lead and saw out the match.

Up next for Senegal is a date with Congo Brazzaville next Tuesday as they seek to win again and boost their chances of reaching the knockout phase.

On the same day, Nigeria will come up against Sudan in a bid to recover from the Senegal setback. 

Head coach Eric Chelle will need to lift the team quickly, as there is still work to be done in this tough Group D.