Senegal Command Group D with Convincing Win Over Botswana
The 2021 champions, Senegal, delivered a powerful opening statement at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Botswana 3-0 on Tuesday.
Playing at the Grand Stade de Tanger, the Lions of Teranga dominated from the opening whistle, though they were initially frustrated by a heroic performance from Botswana’s goalkeeper, Goitseone Phoko, who made several crucial saves early in the match to deny Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 40th minute when Nicolas Jackson, the Bayern Munich forward, clinically turned home a low cross from Ismail Jakobs. Senegal’s relentless pressure continued into the second half, and Jackson doubled the lead in the 58th minute.
Displaying exceptional technical skill, he navigated past two defenders in the box before calmly slotting the ball into the corner to secure his brace.
While Botswana showed glimpses of resilience on the counter-attack, they were largely pinned back by a Senegalese side that registered 28 attempts on goal.
The victory was punctuated in the 90th minute when late substitute Cherif Ndiaye converted a well-placed cross from Cheikh Sabaly. This third goal ensured Senegal finished the opening round at the top of Group D, leading the Democratic Republic of Congo on goal difference.
With three points and a clean sheet, Senegal now turns their attention to a highly anticipated clash against DR Congo this Saturday. Botswana will look to bounce back against Benin as they search for their first points of the tournament.
