Senegal edges Nigeria in a physically contested CHAN 2024 opener

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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.

The match, played at a packed Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, was a closely contested affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut opportunities.

The game was marked by numerous fouls and stoppages, with momentum constantly broken by physical battles in midfield.

Despite Senegal’s early dominance, they failed to convert their possession into scoring chances.

The opening 45 minutes were characterized by few and far between chances, with neither side managing a shot on target.

The deadlock was finally broken 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 Christian Gomis, who slotted home unmarked into an empty net.

The goal proved to be the decisive moment in the match, as Senegal’s compact 4-4-2 shape held firm against Nigeria’s attacks.

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 booked for dissent, reflecting their mounting frustration.

With the result, Senegal earns a crucial three points in Group D, while Nigeria will have to respond quickly in their next outing.

The defending champions will look to build on this win and maintain their title aspirations, while Nigeria will aim to regroup and bounce back in the competition.