The “Teranga Lions” of Senegal began their AFCON 2025 campaign with a clinical 3-0 demolition of Botswana on Tuesday.
The victory sends the 2021 champions to the top of Group D, ahead of DR Congo on goal difference.
The Match Highlights
40th Minute: Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock, tapping home a low cross from Ismail Jakobs.
58th Minute: Jackson doubled his tally with a piece of individual brilliance, weaving through the Zebras’ defense to slot home.
90th Minute: Substitute Cherif Ndiaye added a third late on to put the result beyond doubt.
Touchline Reactions
Pape Thiaw (Senegal Coach): “We wanted a strong start and the boys delivered. Nicolas (Jackson) was clinical, but it was a total team effort. We respect Botswana, but we take it one game at a time. Now we prepare for a tactical battle against DR Congo.”
Nicolas Jackson (Man of the Match): “I’m happy with the two goals, but the three points are what matter. We are playing for the people back home.”
Morena Ramoreboli (Botswana Coach): “The gap in experience was visible. You cannot give world-class players any space. We tried to stay compact, but they wore us down.”
Next Up: A massive clash between Senegal and Sébastien Desabre’s DR Congo this Saturday.
What a fantastic performance by Senegal! It’s great to see them starting the tournament so strongly.