Senegal opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in emphatic style, cruising to a commanding 3–0 victory over Botswana on Tuesday evening.
Nicolas Jackson led the line for the Teranga Lions, supported by an attacking trio of Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, and Ismaïla Sarr.
Botswana, meanwhile, were captained by former Kaizer Chiefs defender Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, who was making his tournament debut.
The 2021 champions asserted their dominance from the outset. Both Jackson and Mané tested Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko early on, while Ndiaye squandered a gilt-edged opportunity inside the opening 15 minutes after Phoko had produced another fine save at close range.
It was largely one-way traffic in the first half, with Botswana struggling to retain possession. Senegal created several clear chances but lacked precision in the final third, as Jackson and Mané both passed up promising openings midway through the half.
The breakthrough finally arrived five minutes before the interval. Jackson collected a well-weighted pass from Ismail Jakobs before rifling a composed finish into the far corner to give Senegal a deserved lead.
Senegal carried that momentum into the second half and doubled their advantage just before the hour mark.
Jackson completed his brace with a calm finish from inside the six-yard box after Botswana lost possession while attempting to play out from the back.
Botswana head coach Morena Ramoreboli responded with a double substitution, introducing Thabo Maponda and Thabang Sesinyi in place of Tumisang Orebonye and Omaatla Kebatho for the final 30 minutes.
Despite the changes, Botswana failed to threaten Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who was largely untested throughout the contest as Pape Thiaw’s side maintained their intensity and control.
Senegal sealed the victory in the final minute of regulation time. A slick passing move ended with Cheikh Sabaly setting up Cherif Ndiaye, who slotted home calmly just five minutes after coming on as a substitute.
The result sends Senegal to the top of Group D in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ahead of their next clash against DR Congo.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
