Senegal seek first win under Vieira against Ethiopia

Senegal’s second Group J qualifier for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is an early test of Patrick Vieira’s new tenure, with a win needed to restore confidence and keep the team close to the top. The Lions were held by Mozambique in their opening match and now face an Ethiopia side also looking to recover from a losing start.

The match is scheduled for Tuesday at 13:00 GMT. Senegal have one point and sit second, level with Mozambique, while Sudan lead the section on three points. Ethiopia are last after their defeat on the opening day. A Senegal victory by at least two goals, combined with a draw between Sudan and Mozambique, would move the Lions into first place.

Vieira has warned that the fixture will not be straightforward and has called for a stronger attacking display from his players. The Senegal coach wants the team to create more opportunities and convert them, with the three points the stated objective. Ethiopia’s need for a result adds pressure to a game in which both teams are seeking a response, but Senegal have the clearest route to changing the group’s order after the first round.