Reigning CHAN champions Senegal and continental heavyweights Nigeria will lock horns in a mouth-watering Group D opener at the Amani Stadium on Tuesday, with both sides eyeing early control of a tricky pool that also features Congo and Sudan.
The clash is expected to be one of the standout games of the group stage as Senegal seek to show their credentials while Nigeria look to make an early statement of intent.
Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo believes his side's 2022 title win is a source of motivation rather than burden. "We are not here to defend the trophy in our keeping, we came to try to win another trophy," he said, underlining his focus on progressing from the group first.
The Teranga Lions are banking on strong preparation and leadership within the camp, with players like El Hadj Malick determined to rise to expectations back home.
