Ethiopia-Senegal (Tuesday 1 p.m.): The Lions, a victory for morale and to rejoin the top of Group J

Senegal faces Ethiopia this Tuesday at 1 p.m. GMT, for the second day of Group J of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. After their draw against Mozambique on Friday, the Senegalese team must quickly return to winning ways to avoid doubt creeping into the camp at the start of the Patrick Vieira era.

Senegal's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers got off to a disappointing start. Held to a draw by Mozambique on Friday, the Lions dropped two valuable points and currently sit second in Group J with one point, behind Sudan (3 points). Mozambique also has one point, while Ethiopia remains at the bottom of the group after their opening-day defeat.

Facing an Ethiopian team also looking to bounce back, Patrick Vieira's men will need to show a different side of themselves. The Lions must secure their first victory and regain confidence after a disappointing start.

Patrick Vieira knows the match will be no formality. The Senegalese coach expects a tough challenge and insists on the need for his team to be more effective in attack. "We expect a complicated, difficult match. There are no easy matches at this level. It's important for us to play well, create chances, and score goals. Our objective is to take all three points," the French coach stated.

Return to the top of the group

Beyond the three points, Senegal can also use this second matchday to reposition themselves at the top of Group J. To regain first place, the Lions must win by at least two goals, while hoping for a draw between Sudan and Mozambique.

But Ethiopia will approach this match with the obligation to react. Having lost their opening game, the Ethiopian national team is currently bottom of the group and must pick up points to avoid further jeopardizing their chances in this qualifying phase.