The Nigeria U-20 national team opened their 2023 AFCON account with a loss against Senegal at the Cairo International stadium in Egypt on Sunday.
A late first half goal by Souleymane Faye proved to be the decider as Senegal edged Nigeria 1-0.
Faye reacted quickest to a ball parried away by Nigeria goalkeeper Nwosu to score from close range in the 40th minute.
Ahmed Abdullahi was sent of minutes after coming on for a reckless challenge on the opposition, making Ladan Bosso boys finish the game with 10 men.
Meanwhile, the opening game of the tournament also played on Sunday, saw Egypt settle for a goalless draw against Mozambique.
Flying Eagles will now face host nation, Egypt on Wednesday, February 22.