BRUSSELS — Senegal opened its 2026 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 1‑1 draw against Madagascar on Tuesday, marking head coach Aliou Cissé Vieira’s first match in charge. Nigeria secured a 2‑1 victory over the same opponent, while Cape Verde suffered a 3‑0 defeat to Mali, leaving the three teams on 1, 3 and 0 points respectively.
Senegal’s debut under Vieira ends in stalemate
Senegal opened the qualifying group with a home fixture at Stade Demba Diop in Dakar. A first‑half goal by Madagascar’s striker Jean‑Claude M’Baye was equalised ten minutes later by Senegal forward Sadio Mané, who converted a cross from midfielder Idrissa Gueye. The match ended 1‑1, leaving Senegal with a single point.
Coach Vieira, appointed in early August after a brief stint as assistant to former manager Aliou Cissé, said his side would need to improve defensive organization after conceding a set‑piece goal. The Senegal Football Federation confirmed that Vieira will retain the same starting eleven for the next qualifier against Nigeria.
Nigeria survives scare to beat Madagascar
In Lagos, Nigeria faced Madagascar at the National Stadium. The hosts fell behind after a 23rd‑minute header from Madagascar’s M’Baye, but rallied with goals from Victor Osimhen (penalty, 38th minute) and Kelechi Iheanacho (66th minute) to clinch a 2‑1 win. The result puts Nigeria at the top of the group with three points.
National team manager Gernot Rohr praised the team’s resilience, noting that the early concession highlighted lapses in concentration that must be addressed before the upcoming clash with Senegal.
Cape Verde’s campaign hits a low point
Cape Verde travelled to Bamako for a decisive encounter with Mali. The visitors were outclassed, conceding three goals in the first half – two from Mali forward Moussa Marega and one from midfielder Amadou Haidara. Cape Verde failed to register a shot on target and left the match without a point.
Cape Verde Football Federation president Pedro Monteiro said the team will regroup and focus on defensive drills ahead of the next qualifier against Nigeria.
Group implications and next fixtures
Group B now stands with Nigeria on three points, Senegal on one, Madagascar on one, Mali on three, and Cape Verde on zero. The next round of matches is scheduled for early October, with Nigeria hosting Senegal and Madagascar travelling to Mali.
All five teams remain within striking distance of the top two spots that guarantee qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations in Kenya. Analysts note that goal difference could become a decisive factor if points remain level after the final round.
