Senegal opened their Africa Cup of Nations title defence in commanding fashion on Tuesday, cruising to a 3–0 victory over Botswana and sending an early warning to their rivals.
Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, tapping home from close range after Ismail Jakobs delivered a swift cross, following a series of early saves by Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko. Jackson struck again in the 58th minute to double Senegal’s advantage before substitute Chérif Ndiaye sealed the result with a composed finish in the 78th minute.
Despite the convincing scoreline, head coach Pape Thiaw urged his players to maintain focus and momentum. “We have to keep going like this. There are no easy opening matches,” he said.
Senegal controlled proceedings from start to finish, with Phoko repeatedly called into action as the Teranga Lions maintained relentless attacking pressure.
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Their official supporters added colour and energy in the stands, dancing to the rhythm of their drums, even as heavy rainfall reduced attendance to just over 18,500 at the 68,000-capacity Grand Stade de Tanger.
The defending champions looked assured and disciplined as they launched their 2025 AFCON campaign, laying down an early marker in their quest to retain the title.
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