Kader Mangane details Senegal’s preparation in Maputo

Senegal began its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with four points from its first two away matches, and team manager Kader Mangane has outlined the work behind that start. The Lions drew 1-1 and won 1-0 on the road, including their assignment in Mozambique.

Mangane, the former Senegal captain, said he arrived in Maputo ahead of the squad to assess the team’s accommodation, security and hygiene arrangements. He also inspected training facilities before selecting a hotel and reaching an agreement with a club for access to a suitable pitch.

His duties extended to coordinating the players’ staggered arrivals at Maputo airport. He worked with local authorities to ease visa and entry procedures, identify arriving players and limit delays after overnight journeys. The plan then moved the squad to the hotel for rest and recovery before training began.

Mangane also attended a stadium meeting with the Confederation of African Football and other officials to settle the final organisational details. After spending time in Maputo, travelling to Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar, and returning to Mozambique, he completed the groundwork for the match while Senegal maintained an unbeaten start to qualification.