Senegal relocates CAN 2027 qualifier against Mozambique to Maputo

The Senegal national football team will relocate its opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers against Mozambique to Maputo, Mozambique. The match, originally scheduled for September 25, 2026, in Dakar, will now take place at the Zimpeto National Stadium.

The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) cited two primary reasons for the change. First, the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio is unavailable as it is being prepared for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Second, the FSF reported that the pitch at the Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium in Dakar is not currently in optimal condition for an official international match, citing concerns for player health.

As part of the agreement between the FSF, the Mozambique Football Federation (FMF), and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the home-field advantage will be swapped. Mozambique will host the first match, while Senegal will host Mozambique during the fifth matchday of the qualifiers in Dakar.