Patrick Vieira’s first match as Senegal coach ended in a 1-1 draw with Mozambique, while Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a narrow 2-1 victory over Madagascar.
Cape Verde endured the biggest setback among the leading sides, losing 3-1 to Mali in Bamako. Egypt were held goalless at home by Angola, while Morocco and Algeria opened with comfortable wins over Gabon and Zambia respectively.
Senegal took the lead in Maputo after 32 minutes when Aston Villa striker Nicolas Jackson converted from close range following a low cross.
Mozambique equalised in first-half stoppage time. Sporting midfielder Geny Catamo struck from outside the area, sending the ball through a crowded goalmouth and into the far corner.
Senegal controlled much of the second half but could not break down a well-organised Mozambique defence. The match had been moved from Senegal to Maputo because no stadium in the West African country currently meets international standards.
Vieira, 50, has taken charge of a Senegal side in transition after replacing Pape Thiaw. The former France midfielder, who also starred for Arsenal, has previously coached in the United States, France, England and Italy.
Senegal were without recently retired goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and injured forward Sadio Mane. Kalilou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gueye started on the bench.
The result comes during a turbulent period for the Teranga Lions. They were stripped of the previous Africa Cup of Nations title after the African confederation, CAF, awarded the final to Morocco following a dispute over a penalty. Senegal’s appeal will be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on October 8.
Nigeria also had to recover from a difficult start in Uyo, where Madagascar went ahead after 16 minutes through Ehsan Kari.
With Victor Osimhen absent through injury, the Super Eagles were rescued by two players making their international debuts. George Ilenikhena, 20, who plays in Saudi Arabia, equalised in first-half stoppage time before substitute Moses Usor scored the winner in the 65th minute.
Cape Verde, who had impressed by holding eventual 2026 World Cup winners Spain and taking Argentina to extra time before losing, were outplayed by Mali.
Martial Tia put Mali ahead within five minutes in front of an excited crowd of 50,000. Cape Verde levelled when a Sidny Cabral free-kick was deflected into the net, but Dorgeles Nene restored Mali’s advantage shortly before half-time.
Goalkeeper Vozinha then gifted Mali a third goal. He came outside his area to control the ball with his chest, lost possession and allowed Nene to shoot into an unguarded net.
