Mozambique and Ethiopia were level at 0-0 at half-time in the first leg of their third-round Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier at Estadio do Zimpeto.
The Mambas have controlled the match in front of their home supporters but have been unable to break through an organised Ethiopian defence.
Mozambique have enjoyed 74% possession, with Ethiopia managing just 26%. That dominance has also been reflected in the number of attempts, with the hosts recording nine shots compared with four for the visitors.
However, Mozambique’s territorial control has yet to produce a goal, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of the second half.
The hosts will look to turn their sustained pressure into a breakthrough after the interval, while Ethiopia will rely on its defensive resilience and the possibility of catching Mozambique on the counter-attack.
The second half will therefore be crucial in separating the two sides before the return leg.
