Defending champions Senegal kicked off their title defence at the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nigeria in a fiercely contested Group D opener at Amaan Stadium.

The match, which showcased the intensity expected from two West African footballing powerhouses, was decided by a second-half strike from Christian Gomis.

The tournament, exclusively for players competing in their domestic leagues, saw both sides create chances but struggle for composure in the final third.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria, returning to CHAN for the first time since 2018, started with high-pressing aggression, while Senegal, the 2022 champions, maintained their composure.

The decisive moment came in the 75th minute after a swift Senegalese counter-attack. Substitute Moctar Koïté delivered a pinpoint pass into the box, where Christian Gomis arrived unmarked to calmly slot the ball home with his left foot. It was a goal born of precision and timing, and it proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Nigeria responded with urgency, introducing new attackers and threatening from set pieces in the final minutes. However, Senegal’s disciplined backline, led by Seyni Ndiaye and Joseph Layousse, held firm under the growing pressure, securing a crucial three points.

Despite the defeat, Nigeria’s coach Éric Chelle remained hopeful, stressing the need to “take each game as it comes” with fixtures against Congo and Sudan still to follow.

For Senegal, the win extends their unbeaten run against West African sides at CHAN and marks their sixth 1-0 victory in the competition’s history, highlighting their defensive resilience.

Senegal now lead Group D, while Nigeria will be looking to bounce back in their next fixture in what is shaping up to be a challenging group.

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