Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles began their 8th African Nations Championship campaign on a sour note, falling 1-0 to reigning champions Senegal in a tense Group B clash on Tuesday evening at the Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar.
Cup holders Senegal capitalized on a rare defensive lapse to net the winner with 15 minutes remaining. A slick move teased Eagles goalkeeper Lawal Mustapha off his line, allowing the Lions of Teranga to slot home their only shot on target in the entire contest.
The much-anticipated encounter lived up to its billing, with both West African giants trading blows in a high-octane duel that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Despite Nigeria dominating possession and pressing relentlessly, clear scoring chances remained elusive as Senegal’s backline stood resolute. Leonard Ngenge and captain Junior Nduka marshaled the defense, while Tochukwu Michael and Olamilekan Adedayo battled tirelessly in midfield, but the final pass often failed to unlock the disciplined Senegalese block.
With the clock winding down, Senegal nearly doubled their advantage through a sweeping team move, but Ngenge and Nduka scrambled back to avert further damage.
The defeat leaves the Eagles rooted to the bottom of Group B without a point, after Congo and Sudan played out a 1-1 stalemate earlier in the day.
Nigeria will look to revive their campaign when they face Sudan in their second group match at the same venue next Tuesday.
