Senegal coach Patrick Vieira says there are areas his side must improve after beginning their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique.
Vieira was taking charge of Senegal for the first time in a competitive fixture when the Lions were held in Maputo on Friday in their opening Group J match.
Senegal took the lead through Nicolas Jackson in the 32nd minute after making a strong start to the contest, but Mozambique equalised in first-half stoppage time to level the match.
The visitors were unable to find a second goal after the break and had to settle for a point from Vieira’s first match in charge.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, the former Strasbourg coach expressed disappointment at Senegal’s failure to turn their opportunities into goals, particularly during the opening half.
“There are obviously regrets. I think we deserved better in the first half. But, unfortunately, it proves that there are areas for improvement.”
Senegal created several opportunities before the interval but were unable to extend their advantage.
Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan played an important role in keeping the hosts in the match, including making a notable save to deny Pape Matar Sarr from scoring a second Senegal goal in the 39th minute.
Senegal’s failure to capitalise on their chances allowed Mozambique to remain within touching distance before drawing level just before half-time.
The Lions also struggled to maintain their momentum after the break, with Mozambique holding firm to secure a share of the points.
Despite the result, Vieira identified positive aspects in Senegal’s performance and said he wants to build a team that reflects his approach to the game.
The coach is targeting an aggressive and attack-minded side and believes the opening match has provided a foundation from which the team can develop.
“We have to keep working, because we knew that everything wasn’t going to be perfect in this match. We identified the shortcomings and we’re going to address them with hard work.
“It was important to lay a foundation. In terms of attitude and the players’ performance, we’re on the right track. There’s disappointment because we still have this desire to win, and we showed, in our play, that we wanted to take this victory. But luck wasn’t on our side. Maybe we’ll convert those chances in the next match.”
The draw leaves Senegal third in Group J, two points behind leaders Sudan.
Sudan moved to the top of the group after beating Ethiopia 1-0 in their opening qualifier, with Mohamed Eisa scoring from the penalty spot in the 86th minute.
For Senegal, attention now turns to their second Group J fixture against Ethiopia on 29 September.
Vieira will have the opportunity to address the weaknesses identified in Maputo as Senegal look for their first victory of the qualifying campaign.
The Lions are also scheduled to play a friendly against Comoros in Marseille on 4 October.
