The game and the players: Senegal-Mozambique, match ratings

For his first match in charge of the Lions, Patrick Vieira opted for a 4-3-3 formation, with several changes in players' profiles and positions. This choice did not produce the desired results, particularly in attack. After taking the lead in the 32nd minute thanks to Nicolas Jackson, Senegal were pegged back and never managed to regain control despite the various substitutions made during the match.

Both in terms of play and effectiveness, performances were mixed. Some players stood out, while others had more difficulty influencing the match.

Yehvann Diouf - 5/10

With Édouard Mendy's departure, the question of who will become the Lions' number one goalkeeper remains open. For this first match of the Vieira era, the French coach chose Yehvann Diouf. The OGC Nice goalkeeper had relatively little to do during the match, but he may have some regrets about Mozambique's equalizing goal, for which he could be held responsible.

Moussa Niakhaté - 7/10

For some time now, Moussa Niakhaté has established himself as one of the leaders of the Senegalese defense. He demonstrated this once again against Mozambique. Starting as captain, the defender made numerous interventions to thwart opposing attacks and protect his defense. A solid performance, befitting his status.

Sadibou Sané - 5/10

In his first appearance with the senior national team, Sadibou Sané delivered a performance of two halves. Alongside Niakhaté, the defender put in a rather convincing first half. After the break, he struggled more, with several turnovers that could have proved costly for the Lions.

El Hadji Malick Diouf - 5/10

Present in the Senegalese lineup, El Hadji Malick Diouf offered little going forward, aside from a few promising moments in the first half. The left-back struggled most on his flank against the Mozambican attackers. His defensive positioning wasn't always effective enough.

Lamine Sy - 5/10

On the right flank, Lamine Sy didn't quite manage to provide the expected attacking impetus to break down the Mozambican defense. In his first appearance for the national team, the full-back sometimes seemed restricted in his forward runs and overlapping with Assane Diao. However, he did perform well defensively.

Lamine Camara - 6/10

Positioned at the deep end of midfield, his preferred role, Lamine Camara was one of Senegal's most prominent players. Available and active in the middle of the park, he contributed to the team's balance. However, he mishandled several corners won by the Lions and also committed numerous fouls, which ultimately earned him a yellow card.

Pape Guèye - 5/10

Usually a key player for the Lions, Pape Gueye failed to find a way through the Mozambican defense a second time. His transitions lacked the pace to trouble a well-organized back line. Struggling against the smaller Mozambican players, the midfielder also received a yellow card before being substituted in the 89th minute.

Pope Matar Sarr - 4/10

Pape Matar Sarr had a disappointing match. The Senegalese midfielder offered little in attack and failed to contribute sufficiently in transitions. His underwhelming performance led to his substitution in the 68th minute by Ibrahim Mbaye.

Abdallah Sima - 7/10

Abdallah Sima was one of the Lions' best players in the match. Dynamic and determined, the striker regularly created danger and opportunities. However, he lacked the finishing touch to capitalize on his good intentions.

Assane Diao - 4/10

The Como striker failed to make a significant impact on the match. Despite several attempts to break down the Mozambican defenders, Assane Diao often lacked precision in his play. He was replaced in the 83rd minute by Pape Moussa Fall.

Nicolas Jackson - 5/10

Scoring Senegal's only goal, Nicolas Jackson gave the Lions the lead in the 32nd minute. But beyond his goal, the Chelsea striker was relatively uninvolved in the game. He lacked runs in behind and movement to truly unsettle the Mozambican defense. He was substituted in the 84th minute by Boulaye Dia.

An attacking sector still under construction

Patrick Vieira's first match in charge highlighted Senegal's difficulties in maintaining a consistent attacking rhythm. The 4-3-3 formation experimented with by the new coach showed some promising moments, but the team struggled to find continuity after taking the lead.

Having conceded a goal after taking the lead and failing to regain it despite substitutions, the Lions will need to further refine their teamwork and attacking efficiency. Their upcoming matches will provide a clearer picture of Vieira's playing style.