AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Ethiopia vs Senegal – Lions of Teranga seek first win under Patrick Vieira – Preview

Ethiopia will host Senegal in a crucial Group J encounter of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday, September 29, with both sides looking for a much-needed boost after disappointing results in the opening round.

The Walia Ibex began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Sudan. The match appeared destined to finish goalless before Mohamed Eisa scored in the 86th minute to give Sudan all three points.

Ethiopia will therefore be looking to respond on home soil, although they face a Senegal side determined to secure its first victory under new head coach Patrick Vieira.

Senegal were held to a 1-1 draw by Mozambique in Vieira’s first competitive match in charge. Nicolas Jackson put the Lions of Teranga ahead in the 32nd minute, but Geny Catamo equalised shortly before half-time. Senegal were unable to find a second goal despite controlling portions of the contest.

Vieira has begun a new era without Sadio Mane, who is absent from the squad because of what the coach described as a physical issue. The Senegal squad still contains considerable attacking quality, with Jackson joined by the likes of Ismaila Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye, Boulaye Dia, Assane Diao and Abdallah Sima.

Experienced figures such as Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Pape Matar Sarr also remain part of Vieira’s squad, while the new coach has introduced several younger players as he begins reshaping the team.

For Ethiopia, the priority will be to improve their attacking output after failing to score against Sudan. A victory would immediately put the Walia Ibex back into contention in a group where Sudan currently lead with three points, while Mozambique and Senegal have one point each.

Senegal, meanwhile, cannot afford another dropped opportunity if they are to make a strong start under Vieira. The Lions will be seeking a more clinical performance after their opening draw.

The match will be played at Bahir Dar National Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.