Latest news with #ChristianGomis
Arab News
5 days ago
- Sport
- Arab News
Senegal grind out win against Nigeria to open CHAN title defense
NAIROBI: Senegal beat Nigeria 1-0 in their opening group match at Zanzibar's Amaan stadium on Tuesday to make a successful start to their African Nations Championships (CHAN) title defense. The sides were evenly matched for the majority of the encounter before Senegal, who were meeting their West African rivals for the first time in the championships, managed to break the deadlock in the 75th minute. Midfielder Serigne Koite pounced on a loose ball at the edge of the box, drew out the Nigerian goalkeeper and set up Christian Gomis to tap home the winner for Senegal. Senegal's next opponents Congo came from behind to hold favorites Sudan to a 1-1 draw in an evenly-contested game. The Sudanese Falcons had appeared on course to collect all three points after wonderkid Musa Ali Hussein had given them an early lead in the 29th minute. The Al Merrikh striker weaved past a pair of Congolese defenders before releasing a right-footed shot from the left side of the box to give his side a well deserved lead. But a defensive lapse inside the last five minutes allowed underdogs Congo to share the spoils. Substitute Carly Ekongo rescued his country in the 86th minute when he capitalized on a loose ball inside the penalty area to smash home the equalizer.
CAF
6 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Senegal coach Diallo downplays favourites tag after derby win
Senegal head coach Souleymane Diallo has rejected claims that they are favourites to win the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa after an important win over fellow giants Nigeria. The Teranga Lions started their title defence with a statement win over their fierce rivals Nigeria on Monday, as Christian Gomis's late strike secured a narrow 1-0 triumph in Kampala. But while the result drew headlines, it was the measured post-match reflection from head coach Diallo that added deeper insight into the reigning champions' evolving strategy. Tactical Mastery and a Team Effort 'It was team solidarity,' Diallo said post-match, when asked what made the difference on the day. 'We played like a team—high press, counter-press, compact blocks. The players showed character and intelligence.' The Teranga Lions switched to a 4-2-3-1 setup to neutralize Nigeria's 4-4-2 shape. Diallo explained that they had rehearsed various tactical variants in the build-up to the tournament, allowing them flexibility against different opponents. His midfield dictated tempo, wingers stretched Nigeria's defence, and the forwards linked play effectively. 'We've worked on our shape for two months. Our midfielders controlled the pace and our wingers exploited the flanks. It paid off today.' Christian Gomis Delivers, But Coach Stays Grounded The decisive moment came in the 75th minute, when Gomis latched onto a through ball and slotted home calmly, sending the Senegalese bench into wild celebrations. Yet Diallo was quick to avoid over-celebration. 'Are we favourites? No. It's just three points. We'll take the positives, but there's still work to be done,' he cautioned. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining humility in a tight group where small margins can make a huge difference. 'We're ahead now, but that only matters if we build on it.' Tribute to Local Coaches and Grassroots Work Diallo used the opportunity to highlight the contributions of domestic coaches who often go unheralded. 'This win is for the Senegalese people, especially the local coaches,' he said. 'They are the ones doing the groundwork back home. We have an easy job because of the platform they've created.' Reading the Opponent and Making the Right Calls Diallo revealed that Nigeria's attempt to overload the left wing required tactical patience. 'They were strong down that side. We waited to understand their approach, then made changes,' he said, adding that his substitutions brought 'energy and fresh ideas.' His ability to adapt mid-game without compromising the team's structure proved key in securing all three points. Young Blood, Big Stage Perhaps the boldest part of Diallo's approach was his trust in youth. Several players from Senegal's U17 ranks were handed debuts on African football's senior stage. 'The high level does not consider age,' he stated. 'Some of our players play different roles at their clubs, but today they adapted quickly. Hats off to those kids—they represent the intelligence of Senegalese football.' Eyes on the Prize, But Feet on the Ground While Senegal's defensive solidity and attacking threat were evident, Diallo insists his side must continue improving. 'We must equal or better today's performance in the next match. This tournament punishes complacency.' With three points secured and belief rising, the reigning champions have sent an early warning. But Diallo's message remains consistent: focus, adapt, and grow. Next Fixture: Senegal will aim to consolidate their lead in Group C in their next fixture against
