Nigeria’s Super Eagles B made a disappointing return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in their Group D opener in Abidjan.
It was Nigeria’s first appearance at the CHAN finals since 2018, but the home-based squad lacked composure and creativity for much of the contest, falling short against a more structured Senegalese side.
Despite early energy and physicality from the Nigerians, the first half produced few clear-cut chances. Sikiru Alimi forced a decent save from Senegal goalkeeper Marc Diouf midway through the opening 45 minutes, while Senegal’s Daouda Ba and Moctar Koïté tested Nigeria’s defence with efforts from distance.
The Super Eagles B pressed high early on, with Nduka Junior and Raymond Tochukwu establishing a foothold in midfield. However, both players picked up early yellow cards as tackles flew in and tensions rose.
Chelle’s decision to deploy a narrow 4-4-2 diamond formation left his side vulnerable on the flanks and blunt in the final third. Despite some tidy passing sequences, Nigeria failed to threaten Senegal’s goal with any real conviction.
The breakthrough finally arrived with just 15 minutes remaining. Substitute Moctar Koïté broke down the right and delivered a precise low cross into the box, where an unmarked Christian Gomis calmly slotted home.
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The goal stemmed from a miscommunication between Ikorodu City defender Ngenge Leonard and goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal. Leonard, who had looked composed in possession, will rue the moment that marred an otherwise decent defensive outing.
Super Eagles B.Photo Credit: X
In response, Nigeria showed late urgency, introducing Vincent Temitope and Godwin Obaje in search of an equaliser.
Temitope came close with a low drive that flashed just wide, while Alimi and Jabbar Malik threatened from set pieces as time ran out.
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Chelle’s delayed use of key attacking players Shola Adelani and Anas Yusuf also drew criticism, with both coming on only after Nigeria had gone behind.
For Senegal, the win puts them atop Group D and extends their unbeaten run against West African sides in CHAN competition.
Nigeria now face a must-win clash against Sudan, who held Congo to a 1-1 draw. Another defeat would see the Super Eagles B eliminated from the competition.
