Defending champions Senegal kicked off their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) title defence with a narrow 1-0 victory over Nigeria in a hard-fought Group D encounter on Tuesday in Zanzibar.
Christian Gomis netted the decisive goal in the 75th minute, sealing a crucial win for the Teranga Lions in a tense match that was marked by physical battles and disciplined defending from both sides.
Nigeria, making a return to the CHAN finals for the first time since 2018, started the game on the front foot. Midfielders Nduka Junior and Raymond Tochukwu brought early energy but were both cautioned as the match quickly turned aggressive.
Senegal gradually took control, displaying calmness under pressure and creating more structured opportunities. Nigerian forward Sikiru Alimi came closest for the Super Eagles, forcing a smart save from goalkeeper Marc Diouf, while Senegalese attackers Daouda Ba and Moctar Koïté tested the Nigerian backline with long-range efforts.
The breakthrough came when Koïté raced down the right flank and sent in a precise low cross. Gomis met it with a well-timed run and slotted home with his left foot, triggering celebrations on the Senegal bench.
The result puts Senegal in a strong position in the group as they begin their quest to retain the CHAN title, while Nigeria will now look to bounce back in their next fixture.
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