Defending champions Senegal recorded a 1-0 victory over Nigeria in the African Nations Championship Group D clash in Zanzibar on Tuesday.
Eric Chelle opted for a 4-4-2 formation with Sikiru Alimi, and Anthony Ijoma leading the line while captain, Nduka Junior marshalled the defence.
Both sides started the encounter on a cautious note with Nigeria asking salient questions in the opening 20 minutes but they failed to break the deadlock.
Nigeria Goalkeeper Lawal Mustapha read quite well a good cross from the left in the 21st minute, and in the 33rd minute, the Lions of Teranga came close again from a free kick on the right.
Senegal took over proceedings after the half hour mark but the holders failed to find the cutting edge required to score as the first half ended goalless.
The Teranga Lions scored with their only shot on goal after Nigeria goalkeeper Lawal Mustapha rushed out of his goalpost to allow Christian Gomis to tap into an empty net in the 75th minute.
With a minute left, Senegal could have added another goal with a flowing team move, but Ngenge and Nduka were on hand to clear their lines.
Defeat means the Super Eagles occupy the bottom of group D without a point, following the earlier 1-1 draw between Congo and Sudan.
Up next for Nigeria is a clash against Sudan on Tuesday.
The African Nations Championship features players in the local leagues in Africa, this is the first edition to be hosted by three countries, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
