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.

Both teams are considered among favorites to win the moth-long 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 on January 19.

Nigeria on the other hand will play Guinea-Bissau.

Egypt's loss came after other football giants were handed defeats in Cameroon.

Ghana lost to Morocco on Monday, while defending Champions Algeria lost to Sierra Leone in what has been labelled the shock result of the tournament so far.