Senegal got off to a perfect start to the 2025 African Cup of Nations by dominating Botswana (3-0) on Tuesday at the Grand Stade in Tangier. Finalist in two of the last three editions, he confirmed his status as favorite by largely controlling the debates against an opponent who was outdated but long attractive.
Patient but constant domination
From the first minutes, the Lions of Teranga imposed their rhythm, monopolizing the ball and multiplying the offensives. Nicolas Jackson found himself in several clear situations, just like Sadio Mané, without immediate success against a very busy Botswana goalkeeper. Solid in the middle and disciplined collectively, Botswana resisted for a large part of the first period, relying on numerous saves from Goitseone Phoko.
The Senegalese pressure ended up paying off shortly before the break. Following a cross from the left, Jackson found the opening from close range (40th), cementing a hitherto sterile but clear superiority in the game.
Jackson as leader, Senegal in management
When we returned from the locker room, the scenario remained the same. Senegal continued to push, without letting up their pressure. Jackson scored twice on the hour mark (58th), finishing a quick action after a high recovery. Conversely, Botswana never really worried the Senegalese defense, perfectly organized around Kalidou Koulibaly.
At the end of the match, the African champions managed their lead without breaking up. Coming into play, Chérif Ndiaye sealed the Senegalese success in the final minutes (90th), punctuating a one-sided encounter. With this clear victory and without conceding a goal, Senegal takes the lead in its group and sends a clear message to its competitors.
