Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles B began their campaign at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 with a disappointing 1-0 loss to Senegal in their Group D opener.
The match, held in Zanzibar, saw both teams go into halftime level after a tense, goalless first half. Nigeria’s Raymond Tochukwu and Nduka Junior were both booked, as the team struggled to create clear chances.
Senegal, who had lost their last two matches against Tanzania and Uganda, finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute through Christian Gomis, who slotted home the winner after sustained second-half pressure.
Despite multiple late substitutions by coach Eric Chelle, including four attacking changes, the Super Eagles B couldn’t find an equaliser. Austin Harrison also received a yellow card in the dying moments of the match.
The Super Eagles had gone viral before kick-off after entering the pitch dancing to Nigerian Afrobeats star Shallipopi’s hit track; a moment that caught attention across social media.
However, the upbeat energy didn’t translate to performance on the pitch.
With Congo and Sudan playing out a 1-1 draw, Nigeria now sits bottom of Group D and must win their next match against Sudan to stay in contention for a knockout spot.
