The Flying Eagles of Nigeria lost their opening match in Group B of the Accra 2023 African Games 2-1 to Uganda, Thursday night.
The Ugandans dominated the game from the blast of the whistle and they opened the scoring in the 33rd minute through Arafat Usama.
Sadiq Isyaka drew Nigeria level in the 36th minute from a corner kick.
The Ugandas were the better side for much of the encounter and it took several saves from the Nigerian goalkeeper to keep the scores level.
The pressure finally paid off for Uganda in the 81st minute when they went 2-1 up as a long range shot from Ivan Irinimbabazi caught the Nigerian goalkeeper unawares.
The Flying Eagles tried to come back into the game but Uganda held on for the win.
In the other Group B encounter decided earlier, former champions Senegal clinched a hard-fought 1-0 win over South Sudan.
The only goal of the match was scored by Mamadou Lamine Sadio in the first half.
This is South Sudan’s maiden appearance in the football competition of the African Games, while Senegal boast a rich history in the tournament.
The Senegalese lineup featured several players promoted from their Under-17 World Cup squad.
Senegal’s next game is against Uganda on Monday while Nigeria battle South Sudan.
Action continues on Friday as hosts Ghana go head-to-head with Congo in Group A while the Gambia clash with Benin Republic.