Senegal begin CAN 2027 campaign with Mozambique edge

Senegal will open their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations against Mozambique carrying a significant historical advantage. The meeting gives Patrick Vieira’s side an early opportunity to set the tone in a campaign involving the reigning African champions.

The Lions have repeatedly taken points from the Mambas in competitive meetings. Senegal won the first encounter 2-0 at the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations, then secured victories home and away against Mozambique during the 1994 World Cup qualifiers. The return match in Dakar ended 6-1 after a 1-0 Senegalese win in Maputo.

The pattern continued in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with Senegal winning 2-0 at home before a goalless draw in Mozambique. In the 2023 qualifying campaign, the Lions again won both fixtures, taking a 5-1 victory in Dakar and a 1-0 success in Maputo. Senegal also defeated Mozambique 1-0 at the 2021 COSAFA Cup and prevailed on penalties after a 1-1 draw in 2022.

That record gives Senegal confidence, but it does not settle Friday’s contest. Mozambique have improved in recent years and will seek to challenge the champions rather than repeat earlier results. Vieira’s team must turn its historical superiority into a strong start to the new qualifying campaign.