Senegal stunned Nigeria’s Super Eagles B with a 1-0 win in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Group D opener.
Christian Gomis delivered the decisive blow in the 75th minute, capitalizing on a goalkeeping blunder to slot home the match’s only goal.
Despite returning to CHAN after a six-year absence, Nigeria struggled to create scoring chances under coach Eric Chelle.
The Super Eagles B’s forwards, including Sikiru Alimi and Anas Yusuf, were stifled by Senegal’s disciplined backline.
Following the loss, Sports Buddy brings you a recap taking about the four players that troubled Super Eagles in the CHAN opener.
Christian Gomis’ Decisive Strike
Senegal’s Christian Gomis delivered the knockout blow in their 1-0 victory over Nigeria at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 opener on August 5, 2025, at Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar.
The forward pounced on a goalkeeping error in the 75th minute, slotting home the match’s only goal. Gomis’ relentless pressing and sharp positioning kept Nigeria’s defense, led by Junior Nduka, on edge throughout.
His ability to exploit gaps exposed vulnerabilities in the Super Eagles B’s backline, making him a constant threat.
Baye Assane Ciss’ Midfield Mastery
Midfielder Baye Assane Ciss was Senegal’s engine, dictating the tempo and stifling Nigeria’s attempts to build play.
His precise passing and aggressive tackling disrupted the rhythm of Nigeria’s Alex Oyowah and Adedayo Olamilekan.
Ciss’ ability to intercept and transition quickly into attack was pivotal, especially in setting up the sequence that led to Gomis’ goal.
Oumar Ba’s Dynamic Runs
Senegal’s forward Oumar Ba tormented Nigeria’s defenders with his pace and off-the-ball movement.
While he didn’t score, Ba’s constant runs stretched the Super Eagles’ backline, creating space for Gomis’ decisive strike.
His interplay with Sarr and Gueye kept defenders Sodiq Ismaila and Steven Mayo Egbe guessing, as Ba’s versatility allowed Senegal to switch between direct attacks and patient build-up.
Seyni Mbaye Ndiaye’s Defensive Wall
Defender Seyni Mbaye Ndiaye was a rock at the heart of Senegal’s backline, neutralizing Nigeria’s attacking threats like Sikiru Alimi and Anas Yusuf.
His timely interventions and aerial dominance thwarted Nigeria’s set-piece attempts, while his composure under pressure ensured Senegal maintained a clean sheet.
Ndiaye’s leadership helped the Lions of Teranga absorb Nigeria’s late push for an equalizer, securing their status as defending champions.
