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Defending champions Senegal began their TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 campaign on a positive note with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nigeria in Group D, courtesy of a second-half strike by forward Christian Gomis.
The match, played at a packed Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, was far from a spectacle. Both teams struggled for fluidity in a game riddled with fouls and stoppages, with momentum constantly broken by physical battles in midfield.
Despite Senegal pressing early, they failed to convert their dominance into clear-cut opportunities. In the opening 45 minutes, chances were few and far between. Nigeria grew into the game midway through the half, enjoying spells of possession through midfielders Tochukwu Emmanuel and Abdulmalik Mohammed, but failed to test Senegal goalkeeper Pape Diouf.
Discipline was an issue early on, with Tochukwu Emmanuel picking up Nigeria’s first yellow card in the 5th minute for a hard foul in midfield. Senegal’s Mbaye Ndiaye was also cautioned shortly after for a similar infringement. Nigeria’s defender Junior Ngenge received the second booking for his side before halftime, after a clash during an aerial duel.
The first half ended goalless, with neither side managing a shot on target.
The breakthrough came in the 75th minute, following a Nigerian defensive lapse. Substitute Mouhamed Koité capitalized on a loose ball at the edge of the area, drew out goalkeeper Adeleye Lawal, and laid it off for Gomis, who slotted home unmarked into an empty net.
The goal prompted a series of substitutions from both sides. Nigeria brought on attackers Godwin Obaje and Anas Yusuf in search of an equalizer, while Senegal reinforced midfield with Bonaventure Fonseca and Mbaye Ndiaye.
Despite their efforts, Nigeria lacked the final pass and never really threatened the Senegal goal. Their best chance came earlier in the half when Abdulrafiu Ajibola headed over from a decent cross.
The match’s tempo remained sluggish, frequently disrupted by injuries and tactical fouls. Nigeria’s substitute Austin Harrison Uzondu was also booked for dissent, reflecting their mounting frustration.
Senegal’s compact 4-4-2 shape held firm, and the West African side managed the game effectively after taking the lead.
With the result, Souleymane Diallo’s men earn a crucial three points in Group D, while Eric Chelle’s Nigeria will have to respond quickly in their next outing.
