In their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the African champions (2021) showed no signs of hesitation. Senegal dominated Botswana with a score of 3-0 at the Grand Stade de Tanger during the first day of Group D. This controlled victory allows the Lions of Teranga to take the lead in their group thanks to a better goal difference.
A One-Sided Match
From the kickoff, the Senegalese, led by Pape Thiaw (who replaced Aliou Cissé on the bench), imposed their rhythm. Facing a solid and well-organized Botswana team under the orders of Morena Ramoreboli, the Lions created numerous chances. The Zebras’ goalkeeper, Goitseone Phoko, stood out with no less than 14 saves, fending off repeated assaults from Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr, and others.
It wasn’t until the 40th minute that the deadlock was broken: Nicolas Jackson, the forward on loan to Bayern Munich, opened the scoring with a decisive pass from Ismail Jakobs, finishing off a low cross at the near post (1-0).
In the second half, Senegal accelerated. In the 58th minute, Jackson scored a magnificent double: served by Ismaïla Sarr, he eliminated two defenders with a devastating drag before finishing from close range (2-0). Botswana, participating in only their second AFCON (after 2012), never really threatened, despite a few timid counterattacks.
At the end of the match, in the 90th minute, Cherif Ndiaye, who came on as a substitute, sealed the fate of the match by scoring the third goal, assisted by Cheikh Sabaly (3-0). In total, the Senegalese attempted 28 shots.
Senegalese Individual Talents Shine
Nicolas Jackson was the man of the match with his double, confirming his status as the offensive leader. Ismaïla Sarr and key players like Kalidou Koulibaly also shone. Despite the persistent rain in Tanger, the Lions displayed a clear technical and tactical superiority.
On the Botswana side, the defensive performance is commendable, but inexperience at the highest level weighed heavily. The Zebras, back in the final phase after a 13-year absence, have still not won a single match in AFCON.
