The Super Eagles B team suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in their opening Group D match at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Tuesday.
Played at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, the keenly contested encounter saw Christian Gomis net the decisive goal in the 75th minute, punishing Nigeria for a defensive lapse and sealing all three points for the Teranga Lions.
The CHAN tournament reserved for players who play in their domestic leagues — marked Nigeria’s return after a six-year absence. Despite fielding a team that included eight Remo Stars players, Nigeria struggled to break down a well-organised Senegalese side.
The first half saw few clear chances, with Senegal’s Serigne Koite and Baye Ciss coming closest. Nigeria managed just three shots, with only one on target, as both sides went into the break goalless.
The Eagles came out stronger in the second half, enjoying more possession and looking more adventurous. However, Senegal capitalised on a moment of defensive disorganisation to grab the winner through Gomis.
Senegal, who now top Group D, nearly added a second late on but were content to manage their lead, securing a professional victory over a side coached by Éric Chelle the Franco-Malian tactician who led Mali to the AFCON 2023 semi-finals and was handed the Super Eagles B job despite Daniel Ogunmodede leading the team through qualification.
Nigeria’s starting XI featured Lawal Mustapha in goal, Junior Nduka (Remo Stars) as captain in defence, along with Ngengen Leonard, Akanni Qudus, and Taiwo Abdulrafiu. The midfield trio included Adedayo Olamilekan, Jabbar Malik, and Michael Tochukwu, while Ijoma Anthony and Sikiru Alimi led the line.
Substitute options included Temitope Vincent, Godwin Obaje, and Shola Adelani.
The loss places Nigeria at the bottom of Group D, with Senegal leading. The group also includes Sudan and Congo, making it a tightly contested pool.
The Eagles now face a must-win clash against Sudan on August 12 to revive their CHAN qualification hopes and avoid an early exit.
