Senegal kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over Botswana in Tangier. The match, marked by heavy rain, saw Senegal's Nicolas Jackson score twice, leading his team to an easy victory.
The opening half hour featured a stellar performance by Botswana's goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, who kept Senegal's stars Sadio Mane and Iliman Ndiaye at bay. However, Senegal broke the deadlock just before halftime when Jackson headed in a cross from Ismail Jakobs. The Chelsea striker, currently on loan at Bayern Munich, added his second goal in the 58th minute, with Cherif Ndiaye securing the victory in stoppage time.
Botswana, who have yet to win a match at Afcon, struggled to pose a threat and will need to significantly improve their performance against Benin on Saturday. Meanwhile, Senegal tops Group D on goal difference and faces DR Congo later in the day.
Despite the comfortable win, Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw may seek improvement in finishing as the tournament progresses. Jackson, who has scored five goals this season for Bayern Munich, had a chance to complete his hat-trick but missed a clear opportunity.
With a strong squad, Senegal is among the favorites to win the Nations Cup. However, Botswana faces an uphill battle to avoid another disappointing Afcon campaign, having lost all three of their matches in 2012.
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