Senegal Off to a Winning Start in CHAN Title Defense with Narrow Win Over Nigeria
Senegal began their African Nations Championship (CHAN) title defense on a high note, edging out Nigeria 1-0 in a tense Group C clash on Tuesday night in Zanzibar City. Christian Gomis’ late goal proved to be the difference as the defending champions outlasted a sluggish Nigerian side at the Amaan Stadium.
Gomis Delivers the Knockout Blow
With just 15 minutes left on the clock, Christian Gomis capitalized on a defensive lapse in the Nigerian backline to seal the win for Senegal. The goal came after substitute Moctar Koita threaded a perfectly timed pass into the box, allowing Gomis to calmly slot the ball into an open net. The Super Eagles’ defense, caught off guard, could do little to recover.
The goal sent the Senegalese bench into jubilation while Nigerian coach Salisu Yusuf and his team were left ruing their missed chances and poor communication at the back.
Nigeria’s Return Falls Flat
After a six-year absence from CHAN, Nigeria had hoped to make a strong comeback. They started the game with promising possession, dictating the tempo early in the first half. However, that dominance failed to translate into real threats on goal.
Their best chance came when forward Sikiru Alimi tested Senegal’s Marc Diouf with a shot on target, but the Lions of Teranga goalkeeper was equal to the task. Overall, the Super Eagles struggled in the final third, failing to create clear scoring opportunities.
Senegal Stay Composed, Eyes on Quarter-Final Spot
Despite Nigeria’s early pressure, Senegal remained disciplined and patient. Libasse Gueye and Daouda Ba looked lively in attack, although their efforts missed the mark. The breakthrough eventually came thanks to Gomis and Koita’s decisive combination late in the match.
We’re not just defending a title—we’re aiming to win another,” Diallo said ahead of the tournament. “Qualifying from the group is the first objective, and we take every opponent seriously. There are no underdogs in African football today.
Senegal’s head coach Souleymane Diallo praised his team’s focus, reiterating that the squad is motivated not by pressure but by purpose.
What’s Next for Both Sides?
Nigeria now faces a must-win match against Sudan on August 12, also in Zanzibar. A loss could see them exit the tournament early. Meanwhile, a second win for Senegal—who face Congo next—would confirm their place in the quarter-finals and further solidify their status as title contenders.
