Vieira begins Senegal era with 1-1 draw in Mozambique

JOHANNESBURG: Patrick Vieira’s first match as Senegal coach ended in a 1-1 draw against Mozambique, while Nigeria narrowly defeated Madagascar 2-1 as Africa Cup of Nations qualifying produced a series of dramatic results on Friday.

Senegal, the controversial runners-up at the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, took the lead in Maputo through Aston Villa striker Nicolas Jackson. The forward finished from close range in the 32nd minute after connecting with a low cross.

Mozambique refused to back down and found an equaliser shortly before half-time. Geny Catamo, who plays for Portuguese club Sporting, struck from outside the box in stoppage time, sending the ball through a crowded penalty area and into the far corner.

Senegal controlled much of the second half and enjoyed long spells of possession, but Vieira’s side could not break down a disciplined Mozambique defence.

The match was moved to Maputo after Senegal was unable to provide a stadium meeting international standards for the opening Group J fixture.

For Vieira, the result marked the beginning of a new chapter with the Teranga Lions. The 50-year-old former France international won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 as a player and also enjoyed a distinguished club career, particularly with Arsenal.

His arrival comes during a difficult period for Senegal. The team recently went through a turbulent year that included the controversial reversal of their AFCON final victory over Morocco and an underwhelming World Cup campaign.

Senegal had originally won the AFCON final 1-0 after extra time, but the Confederation of African Football later awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory following the match controversy. Senegal has appealed the decision, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport scheduled to hear the case on October 8.

Meanwhile, Nigeria survived an early scare against Madagascar, coming from behind to secure a 2-1 victory in Uyo.

Madagascar took the lead after 16 minutes through Ehsan Kari, putting pressure on the hosts. Nigeria, without injured striker Victor Osimhen, eventually turned the game around through two players making their international debuts.

Saudi Arabia-based George Ilenikhena levelled in first-half stoppage time before substitute Moses Usor scored the winner in the 65th minute.

Elsewhere, Mali defeated Cape Verde 3-1 in Bamako, with Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha making a costly error that allowed Dorgeles Nene to score into an empty net.

Egypt were held to a goalless draw by Angola, while Morocco and Algeria recorded comfortable victories over Gabon and Zambia respectively.

The results set the stage for another round of high-stakes qualifying fixtures as teams continue their push for places in the next Africa Cup of Nations.