AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Mozambique vs Sudan – Mambas face early Group J test against leaders – Preview

Mozambique will host Sudan in a crucial Group J clash of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday, September 29, with both sides looking to build on unbeaten starts to the campaign.

The Mambas opened their qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Senegal in Dakar. Nicolas Jackson gave the Lions of Teranga the lead in the 32nd minute, but Geny Catamo restored parity in first-half stoppage time. Neither side could find a winner after the break.

That result handed Mozambique an important point against the reigning African champions and Patrick Vieira’s new-look Senegal side. The Mambas will now return home looking to turn that promising start into their first victory of the campaign.

Sudan, meanwhile, sit top of Group J after securing a 1-0 victory over Ethiopia in their opening fixture. The Falcons of Jediane appeared destined for a goalless draw before Mohamed Eisa struck in the 86th minute to claim all three points.

The result gives James Kwesi Appiah’s side an early advantage in a competitive group that also contains Senegal and Ethiopia. Sudan’s defensive organisation was key to their opening victory, and Appiah will be hoping his team can produce another disciplined display in Maputo.

Mozambique can draw confidence from their performance against Senegal, particularly their ability to recover after falling behind. Geny Catamo will again be one of the players to watch after his equaliser in the opening round.

Sudan, however, will be encouraged by Mohamed Eisa’s match-winning contribution and their clean sheet against Ethiopia. A second consecutive victory would strengthen their position at the top of the group.

The match takes place at the Estádio Nacional do Zimpeto in Maputo, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.