Senegal begin 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying against Mozambique in Maputo

Senegal will open their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Mozambique on Friday, with the match now taking place at the Estadio Nacional do Zimpeto in Maputo rather than Dakar.

Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 GMT on 25 September 2026. The game will be broadcast by Canal+ Afrique, SuperSport, RTS in Senegal, TVM in Mozambique and beIN Sport.

The fixture was originally due to be played in Senegal, but the venue was subsequently moved to Mozambique’s capital. The change provides a distinctive setting for the opening match of Senegal’s qualifying campaign.

Senegal hold the advantage in past meetings

The historical record strongly favours Senegal. The two teams have met seven times in official matches, with the Lions unbeaten after recording six victories and one draw against Mozambique.

Senegal have won six of their 12 matches in 2026. Their most recent results have been mixed, however. A 5-0 victory over Iraq was followed by a 3-2 defeat by Belgium, meaning the team will be expected to improve defensively when they face the Mambas.

Mozambique arrive in more difficult form. They have not won any of their three matches in 2026 and have lost their last two games without scoring. That record leaves them facing a demanding test against one of Africa’s more experienced international sides.

Mozambique seek a response

The match represents an opportunity for Mozambique to halt that poor run and begin qualification with a positive result. Senegal, meanwhile, will be aiming to make a winning start despite the unusual circumstances surrounding the fixture and the switch to Maputo.

On paper, Senegal’s experience and superior record in previous meetings make them the favourites. Africafoot’s prediction is a 2-1 victory for Senegal, although the visitors have been warned to remain alert in what could be a challenging away match.

The game will be Senegal’s first fixture in the opening round of qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Betting company 1xbet lists Senegal at 1.14 to win, with a draw priced at 6.00 and a Mozambique victory at 14.00.