Vieira Leads Senegal Preparation
New Senegal Coach Patrick Vieira Praises Team Focus Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers
Anonymous
Patrick Vieira has begun his tenure as Senegal’s head coach ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifying matches against Mozambique and Ethiopia, following Pape Thiaw’s departure after Senegal’s early elimination from the 2026 World Cup. After the team’s first low-intensity session in Maputo, Vieira praised the players’ focus, commitment and enjoyment at reuniting, while planning more demanding physical and tactical work before the Mozambique match on September 25. Late arrivals followed individualized recovery programs involving stretching, swimming and cycling, with Vieira aiming to have the full squad ready for final preparations. Defender Moussa Niakhaté welcomed Vieira’s appointment, thanked Thiaw for his achievements and said the new coach could provide continuity while drawing on his experience at Strasbourg, Nice and Crystal Palace.
Key Points
1
Pape Thiaw had managed Senegal since December 2024, but the team lost its opening 2026 World Cup group matches against France and Norway before his departure.
2
Senegal’s second AFCON 2027 qualifier is scheduled for September 29 against Ethiopia in Bahir Dar, four days after the Mozambique match in Maputo.
3
Moussa Niakhaté credited Thiaw and his staff with helping Senegal win AFCON 2025 and said the players wanted to continue winning titles under Vieira, whom he described as bringing continuity to Thiaw’s work.
4
Niakhaté said Vieira’s coaching experience at Strasbourg, Nice and Crystal Palace would shape what he brings to Senegal, although the defender had not yet spoken directly with the newly appointed coach because Vieira had arrived late.
5
Vieira has named a 29-man Senegal squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifying program, which also includes a friendly against Comoros.
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