Senegal draw in Vieira debut, Nigeria survive scare, but Cape Verde crash

What the report says

Senegal began a new Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw away to Mozambique, where former France midfielder Patrick Vieira made his debut as head coach. Nicolas Jackson put Senegal ahead in Maputo, but Geny Catamo equalized before halftime. The result came in a Group J match that was moved out of Senegal because no local stadium currently met international standards, according to Al Jazeera’s report.

Nigeria also opened with a narrow win, recovering from an early deficit to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo. Ehsan Kari scored first for Madagascar, but Nigeria responded through debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, with the winner arriving in the second half. The Super Eagles were without injured striker Victor Osimhen.

Cape Verde suffered the heaviest setback among the teams highlighted, losing 3-1 to Mali in Bamako. Mali led early, Cape Verde briefly equalized, and the hosts pulled away before a late error by goalkeeper Vozinha allowed a third goal. Al Jazeera also reported that Egypt were held to a goalless draw by Angola, while Morocco and Algeria won comfortably against Gabon and Zambia.

The results matter because they set the tone for qualification in a continent-wide competition where several established sides are adjusting to new coaches, returning stars, and squad absences. Separately, Al Jazeera noted that Senegal remain in a turbulent period after previous AFCON disciplinary fallout and a disappointing World Cup run.