The home-based Super Eagles of Nigeria have kicked off their African Nations Championship campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Western rivals Senegal, Footynaija.com reports.
A second half strike from Senegalese forward Christian Gomis was enough to punish the Super Eagles for what was a largely disappointing display at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Footynaija.com now brings you five key takeaways from the game.
Related Post
5. Disappointing start for Eric Chelle and the home-based Eagles
In the build up to this tournament, Nigeria was considered one of the favourites to go all the way. However, today’s performance against Senegal has cast a huge shadow over their title credentials.
4. Defensive lapses punished by ruthless Senegal
The home-based Super Eagles looked like a cohesive defensive unit for most parts of the contest at the Amaan Stadium. On one of the rare occasions where the backline switched off, the Teranga Lions were right there to pounce thanks to the clinical ruthlessness of Christian Gomis.
3. More possession for Nigeria, but less penetration
Nigeria saw a lot of the ball during the game, dominating every possession-based statistic as they attempted to build up play from the back. However, glaring shortcomings in the middle of the park meant the Super Eagles were unable to really trouble the Senegalese backline. They managed only 9 touches in the opposition box compared to Senegal’s 16 and mustered only one shot on target.
2. Second best in physical duels
Nigeria’s struggles in one-on-one duels were evident across every area of the pitch. The Super Eagles lost out in both ground duels and aerial duels. Overall, they won only 39% of total duels, compared to Senegal’s 61%. This physical deficit allowed the Teranga Lions to dominate 50/50 battles and control transitions better, especially in the middle of the park.
1. Plenty of work ahead for Eric Chelle’s Eagles
If Nigeria is to live up to expectations as one of the contenders for the African Nations Championship, then there is plenty of work to be done. The Super Eagles had no midfield presence and their attack consequently lacked much bite. Before they file out against Sudan for their second group game, Eric Chelle must address these key issues.
Comments 1