Nicolas Jackson delivered a commanding performance as Senegal began their CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Botswana at the Tangier Stadium.
Playing in front of a packed 75,000-seater, the Lions of Teranga asserted their authority from the opening whistle, dictating possession and pinning Botswana deep in their own half.
Despite Senegal’s dominance, Botswana remained in the contest for much of the first half thanks to an inspired display from goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko. The shot-stopper pulled off a series of four outstanding saves, most notably denying Iliman Ndiaye and Sadio Mané, to frustrate the defending champions.
Senegal’s persistence eventually paid off early in the second half. Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock after meeting a precise cross from Ismail Jakobs, showing composure and clinical finishing to fire home and shift the momentum decisively in Senegal’s favour.
Botswana’s resistance quickly crumbled, and Jackson struck again moments later. Idrissa Gana Gueye capitalised on a loose ball and threaded a clever pass through the defence, allowing the striker to calmly slot home his second goal of the night to give Senegal a commanding 2-0 lead.
The victory was sealed late on when Iliman Ndiaye finally got his reward, finding the back of the net to cap off a dominant Senegal performance.
The convincing win sends Senegal to the top of their group and underlines their intent to reclaim their status as the kings of African football as the tournament gets underway.
