Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles began their African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in Zanzibar on Tuesday.
The breakthrough came late in the second half after a rare defensive lapse saw goalkeeper Lawal Mustapha drawn off his line. The Teranga Lions seized the moment, converting their only real opportunity of the game with just 15 minutes left on the clock.
It was a tightly contested battle at the Amaan Stadium, with both sides matching each other for intensity and physicality. Nigeria dominated possession for long spells and pushed forward repeatedly but struggled to create clear chances against a compact Senegalese defence.
Lawal Mustapha made an early statement by cutting out a dangerous cross in the 21st minute, and Senegal came close again from a set-piece in the 33rd minute.
In midfield, Olamilekan Adedayo and Tochukwu Michael toiled to control the tempo, while Junior Nduka and Leonard Ngenge held firm at the back. However, every Nigerian advance met stiff resistance from the title holders, who packed bodies behind the ball and stayed organized.
In the dying moments, Senegal almost doubled their lead after a slick attacking move, but quick reactions from Nduka and Ngenge ensured the scoreline remained respectable.
With this result, Nigeria sits bottom of Group B, following the earlier 1-1 draw between Congo and Sudan.
The Eagles will aim to bounce back in their next group match against Sudan, scheduled for Tuesday next week at the same venue.
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