SEVEN-TIME Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions Egypt began their 2021 campaign with a loss against Nigeria in a fast-paced game at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium in Garoua, Cameroon, on Tuesday.

Both teams are considered among favorites to win the monthlong continental tournament.

Kelechi Iheanacho scored the game’s only goal in the half-hour mark to ensure the Super Eagles boosted their chances of finishing as Group D leaders.

The North African giants, boasting of talents including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, will now set their eyes on their next game against Sudan, which will be played Jan. 19.

Nigeria on the other hand will play Guinea-Bissau.

Egypt’s loss came after other soccer giants were handed defeats in Cameroon.     (CGTN)