Algeria held by Burundi as Morocco and Senegal win

Algeria’s perfect start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign has been interrupted, while Morocco remains unbeaten and Senegal has recovered from its opening setback. The result also gives Patrick Vieira his first victory as Senegal coach, although the performance offered little comfort beyond the points.

Algeria drew 2-2 with Burundi after falling two goals behind inside the opening 12 minutes. Belloumi pulled one back before Boulbina levelled with a direct free-kick in the second half. The Fennecs had begun the campaign with a win over Zambia, but their second outing produced a missed opportunity after a disjointed display and limited attacking ideas once they had drawn level.

Morocco followed its opening victory against Gabon with a 2-0 success away to Lesotho. Brahim Diaz broke the deadlock just before half-time, and Ounahi added a second after the interval from Rahimi’s delivery. The result keeps the Atlas Lions’ early momentum intact despite a patient, closely contested first half.

Senegal changed shape to a 3-4-3 after drawing with Mozambique and gained an early lead through Ibrahim Mbaye, assisted by Nicolas Jackson. The Lions of Teranga failed to add another goal, and their tempo and quality declined as the match progressed, but the narrow win moves Vieira beyond his first-match disappointment.