AFCON 2025: Jackson Fires Senegal to Comfortable 3–0 Win Over Botswana

Senegal opened their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with authority on Tuesday evening, brushing aside Botswana 3–0 in a performance that underlined their title ambitions from the very first matchday.

From the opening whistle, the reigning African champions imposed themselves on the game, controlling possession and pushing Botswana deep into their own half. Their early dominance paid off midway through the first half when Nicolas Jackson found the breakthrough, finishing calmly after Senegal carved open the defence with a quick passing move.

Botswana tried to regroup after the goal, but Senegal’s intensity never dropped. The Lions of Teranga continued to press high, forcing turnovers and limiting their opponents to speculative long-range efforts that posed little threat.

Jackson struck again shortly after the restart, doubling Senegal’s lead and effectively ending the contest. The forward showed sharp movement and composure in front of goal, latching onto a well-weighted pass before slotting home to make it 2–0. His brace made him the first player at the tournament to score twice, instantly placing him among the early contenders for the Golden Boot.

As the game wore on, Senegal’s depth became evident. With fresh legs introduced in the second half, the tempo remained high, and the pressure on Botswana never eased.

Senegal’s Depth Tells

The third goal arrived late in the match when substitute Ndiaye applied a simple finish from close range after sustained pressure in the box. It was a fitting reward for Senegal’s persistence and a clear reflection of their attacking options beyond the starting XI.

Nigeria Fancied as AFCON 2025 Group C Contenders

The clean sheet capped a near-flawless outing for the West Africans, who barely allowed Botswana a clear sight of goal throughout the 90 minutes. Defensively organised and confident in possession, Senegal looked every bit like a team built for a deep run in the competition.

With three points secured and goal difference boosted, Senegal now turn their attention to a tougher Group-stage test against DR Congo on December 27. Another convincing result there would all but secure their passage to the knockout rounds.

For now, though, the message from their opening match is clear: Senegal have arrived, and they mean business.