It has been a very physically demanding first 45 minutes in this West African derby between Nigeria and defending champions Senegal in Zanzibar in continuation of the 2024 CHAN.
Senegal have played on the front foot from the first whistle, while Nigeria have done well to contain them.
The defending champions have controlled the midfield and so enjoyed more of the possession of the ball.
Towering central defender Leonard Ngenge from Ikorodu City has caught the eye in the heart of the Nigerian back four as they defended resolutely against the Senegalese.
His confidence and composure in his first international outing has already won him a pre-contract with Premier League club Leeds United.
Captain Nduka Junior and midfielder Michael Tochukwu have been the only players booked so far.
The CHAN Eagles will have to do a lot more especially in attack as winger Malik Jabbar ambitious effort from distance on the half hour that was eventually deflected for corner was the notable incursion by the Nigerians into the Senegalese half of the pitch.
CHAN Eagles Starting XI vs Senegal (442) – Mustapha – Ismail, Taiwo, Junior (Captain), Ngenge – Tochukwu, Jabbar, Adebayo, Akanni Qudus – Anthony Ijoma, Alimi
