CHAN 2024: Home-Based Super Eagles Fall to Senegal in Narrow Opening Defeat
Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles were edged 1–0 by defending champions Senegal in their Group D opener at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Tuesday at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar.
Despite showing flashes of promise and dominating parts of the second half, the Eagles couldn’t find the cutting edge — with Christian Kobi punishing them in the 75th minute with a decisive strike for Senegal.
⚽ Match Summary
The game began cautiously, with both teams struggling to stamp authority. Nigeria showed early intent, controlling possession and looking to build from midfield. However, they lacked precision in the final third.
6’ – Tochukwu Michael picked up a yellow card for a rash tackle, setting a tense tone early on.
21’ – Sikiru Alimi tested the Senegalese keeper with a tame effort — Nigeria’s first real sight at goal.
24’ – Captain Junior Nduka also went into the referee’s book for a heavy challenge.
The second half saw Nigeria push higher up the pitch, with waves of attack pinned back by Senegal’s solid defence. Their resilience was rewarded in the 75th minute when Kobi converted a chance to give the defending champions the lead.
🗣️ Coach Ogunmodede’s Challenge
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede now has work to do ahead of their must-win second game against Sudan. With the group wide open following a 1–1 draw between Sudan and Congo, Nigeria must bounce back to keep qualification hopes alive.
💭 Opinion – A Wake-Up Call or Another Tournament of Regret?
Once again, the Super Eagles fall short on the continental stage in an opener — a painful pattern fans know too well. While there were positives in terms of possession and control, the lack of cutting edge in attack and defensive lapses remain worrying.
Will Nigeria rise from this early setback or bow out yet again with promise unfulfilled? The clash against Sudan will be telling.
Next Fixture:
🇳🇬 Nigeria vs Sudan 🇸🇩
📅 Tuesday, August 6
🏟️ Amman Stadium, Zanzibar
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