Senegal defender Moussa Niakhate has called for a focused approach as the Lions of Teranga begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Mozambique.
The Olympique Lyonnais centre-back has a personal connection with Senegal’s opponents, having made his international debut against Mozambique.
Niakhate believes that familiarity will not make the opening Group B fixture any easier, insisting Senegal must approach the match with the seriousness required to begin a new phase positively.
“My story with Senegal began against Mozambique, a team I know and respect greatly,” Niakhate said at a pre-match press conference.
“We expect a difficult match, but we will take it very seriously. We must impose our intentions from the start, with focus and concentration, so that we can begin this new era well.”
Senegal are entering a new phase of their national-team cycle and will be looking to establish momentum from the opening qualifying fixture.
Niakhate stressed the importance of imposing themselves from the start rather than allowing Mozambique to settle into the contest.
The defender’s comments underline Senegal’s focus on avoiding an early setback as they begin their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFCON finals in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
The Lions will be expected to use their experience at continental level when they face Mozambique, but Niakhate has warned that respect for their opponents must accompany that experience.
A positive opening result would give Senegal an early platform as they continue their qualifying campaign and begin building towards the next edition of the continental tournament.
