Senegal secured their first competitive victory under Patrick Vieira after Ibrahim Mbaye’s early strike earned the Lions of Teranga a hard-fought 1-0 win over Ethiopia in Group J.
After being held to a 1-1 draw by Mozambique in Vieira’s first competitive match as Senegal head coach, the former Arsenal midfielder finally tasted victory as his side held on for three valuable points.
Senegal wasted little time making their mark in the contest, breaking the deadlock after just 11 minutes.
Nicolas Jackson created the opening with a well-timed pass for Mbaye, who kept his composure to finish and give Senegal an early advantage.
The goal ultimately proved decisive.
Ethiopia refused to allow Senegal to run away with the game and remained within striking distance for much of the contest. The hosts continued to search for an equaliser after the interval, forcing Vieira to make changes as Senegal worked to protect their slender lead.
The Lions of Teranga, however, remained disciplined and managed the closing stages effectively.
Jackson, who played a key role in creating the winning goal, was withdrawn late in the match as Vieira looked to freshen up his attack. Pape Moussa Fall came on in the 89th minute, while goalscorer Mbaye was also replaced during stoppage time.
Ethiopia pushed for a late breakthrough but Senegal stood firm to secure a valuable clean sheet and their first three points of the campaign.
The victory moves Senegal onto four points from their opening two Group J matches, giving Vieira a positive response after the disappointing draw against Mozambique.
For Ethiopia, the defeat represents another frustrating night in the qualifying campaign. They have now suffered two consecutive 1-0 losses, having also been beaten by Sudan on Matchday One.
That leaves Ethiopia without a point after their opening two matches and facing an early uphill battle in Group J.
Senegal, meanwhile, will take encouragement from a result that was built on an early attacking moment and backed up by defensive discipline. Mbaye’s finish gave them the platform, but their ability to protect the advantage for the remainder of the match ultimately proved just as important.
Vieira will know there is still work to do as he continues to shape his Senegal side, but the result provides an important early boost to his tenure.
The Lions of Teranga now have four points on the board and will look to build momentum as the Group J qualification race continues.
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