Senegal dominated their opening match against Mozambique but could not convert chances in a 1-1 draw, Nicolas Jackson's early goal cancelled by Geny Catamo's first-half equalizer. Now the Lions of Teranga travel to Bahir Dar International Stadium to face Ethiopia, who fell 1-0 to Sudan in the qualifying opener when Mohamed Eisa scored in the 86th minute.
Viera has made intensity and clinical finishing his priorities. "We'll continue to play with more intensity and capitalise on the chances we've created," he told reporters. "It's important for us to play a good match, a complete match." Despite the long journey to Ethiopia, Vieira said the team will be "competitive in terms of tactics, physical condition, and mental strength." Senegal will be without Sadio Mané due to a physical issue but retain Nicolas Jackson, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gana Gueye, and Pape Matar Sarr. Saudi Pro League defender Malang Sarr is set for his Senegal debut.
Ethiopia coach Yohannes Sahilu stressed focus after his strikers missed chances against Sudan. "We should be focused on the game. We should avoid any costly mistakes. We should finish off the chances we create," he said. Bahir Dar, which has hosted the Waliyas only once in five years, is considered a fortress where Ethiopia beat Ivory Coast in 2021 AFCON qualifying.
After matchday one, Sudan leads Group J with three points. Senegal and Mozambique have one point each, while Ethiopia has none. The top two teams will qualify directly for the tournament in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.