AFCON 2025: Senegal Thrash Botswana 3-0 In Group D Opener

Senegal kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Botswana, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defence.

The Lions of Teranga asserted their dominance early, with Nicolas Jackson bagging a brace and substitute Cherif Ndiaye adding a late third.

The opening goal arrived in the 40th minute when Jackson, assisted by Ismail Jakobs, slotted home a left-footed shot.

Despite numerous attempts and a string of saves from Botswana’s goalkeeper, Goitseone Phoko, Senegal went into the break with a slender one-goal lead.

The second half saw Senegal continuing to press. Jackson doubled his tally in the 58th minute, converting an assist from Ismaïla Sarr with a clinical left-footed strike.

As the match entered its closing stages, substitute Cherif Ndiaye put the icing on the cake, finding the back of the net in the 90th minute, assisted by Cheikh Sabaly.

Botswana struggled to create significant chances, with their few goal attempts either blocked or missing the target.

While they showed resilience in defence at times, particularly Phoko, they were ultimately outclassed by a superior Senegalese side.

The victory placed Senegal in a strong position in Group D as they looked to progress in the tournament.