Mozambique - Senegal

Senegal arrive with a clear psychological edge as they prepare to face Mozambique in this Africa Cup of Nations Qualification Group J matchday 1 encounter on 25 September 2026. The visitors have enjoyed a commanding run against their opponents in recent years, most notably during their 2023 qualification campaign where they secured a comprehensive aggregate victory. Having dismantled their opposition across two legs, Senegal will aim to replicate that clinical efficiency to set the tone for their latest continental qualifying journey.

Mozambique face a significant challenge in overcoming a side that has consistently frustrated them in high-stakes meetings. Their previous encounters include a 1-0 defeat in March 2023 and a hard-fought 1-1 draw during the 2022 COSAFA Cup. With no recent competitive form to lean on, both nations enter this opening fixture looking to establish immediate momentum. Mozambique must find a way to break their recent winless streak against Senegal to secure a positive start in the group.