Senegal opened their CHAN 2024 Group D campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Nigeria on Tuesday, with Libasse Gueye delivering a standout performance that earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
Deployed on the attacking flank, the Teungueth FC forward proved to be a constant menace for the Nigerian defence.
His relentless pace, physical presence, and sharp movement consistently unsettled the Super Eagles A’ backline, creating a steady stream of opportunities for the Senegalese attack.
Gueye’s most telling contribution came in the decisive moment of the match.
Midway through the second half, he orchestrated a swift counterattack, breaking free from his marker in midfield before launching a surging run down the right wing.
With remarkable composure, he delivered a precise pass that culminated in the only goal of the contest, securing a vital three points for Senegal.
But Gueye’s influence was not confined to the attacking third.
Demonstrating remarkable work rate, he frequently tracked back to support his teammates defensively, disrupting Nigeria’s attempts to build through the flanks and helping to maintain Senegal’s slender advantage.
His tireless shifts up and down the right side of the pitch highlighted his all-round contribution and tactical discipline.
I’m honoured to receive the Man of the Match award, but more importantly, I’m proud of the team’s collective effort. This win is for Senegal, Gueye said after the match.
Senegal’s head coach Souleymane Diallo also praised his winger’s influential display, calling him a player who leads by example through effort and intelligence on the pitch.
The victory puts Senegal in an early commanding position in Group D, with three points separating them from Nigeria and the group’s other contenders.
While much of the pre-match narrative centred on Nigeria’s return to the competition after a two-edition absence, it was Senegal who seized the moment, asserting their status as defending champions with a composed and efficient display.
For Nigeria, the defeat is a setback, but with further group matches to come, the Super Eagles A’ will be eager to bounce back.
Senegal, meanwhile, will look to build on this opening success as they seek to retain their CHAN crown.
Libasse Gueye’s dynamic performance has not only propelled Senegal to a crucial opening victory but also marked him as one of the tournament’s early standout players.
