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Nigeria's home-based national team, the Super Eagles B, began their 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a disappointing 1–0 defeat to Senegal in their opening match. The match, played in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, was highly anticipated as Nigeria entered the tournament as one of the favourites, having previously clinched the title in the last edition.
Despite showing early promise in the opening minutes, the Nigerian side struggled to maintain control in midfield and lacked attacking edge in the final third. Senegal capitalized on a defensive error late in the first half to grab the only goal of the game. The Nigerian defence, which had been solid during the qualifiers, was caught off guard by a quick Senegalese counterattack that led to the decisive strike.
Coach Salisu Yusuf expressed disappointment after the match, stating that the team failed to execute their game plan. "We had our chances but didn't take them. CHAN is a tough competition, and every mistake counts," he said during the post-match briefing.
The loss puts Nigeria in a tight spot, as they now need strong results in their remaining group matches to stand a chance of qualifying for the knockout stages. Fans have taken to social media to express concern over the team’s performance, urging the coaching staff to make tactical changes ahead of their next fixture.
This defeat marks a worrying trend for Nigerian football at continental tournaments, especially at the local level, where player development and consistency remain a challenge. With two more group games to go, the Super Eagles B must regroup quickly and rediscover their rhythm if they hope to keep their title hopes alive.
Their next match will be crucial, not just for points, but for restoring the confidence of the team and their supporters back home.
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