Nicolas Jackson scored twice to lead Senegal to a commanding 3-0 victory over Botswana in their Africa Cup of Nations opener in Tangier on December 23, 2025. The Lions of Teranga, aiming to reclaim the title they lost in 2023, dominated possession and created numerous chances. Jackson's brace and Cherif Ndiaye's late goal secured the win.
Senegal's dominant display
Senegal controlled the match from the start, overwhelming Botswana with sustained pressure. Goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko kept his side in the game early on, making impressive saves to deny Jackson twice, Sadio Mané twice, and Iliman Ndiaye.
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Jackson met Ismail Jakobs' cross from the left with a composed first-time finish, giving Senegal a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Senegal maintaining intensity. Jackson doubled the lead in the 58th minute, showing good awareness to finish low after a pass from Ismaila Sarr.
Botswana struggled to create threats, rarely testing Edouard Mendy in goal. Senegal wrapped up the scoring in stoppage time, as substitute Cherif Ndiaye swept home from Cheikh Sabaly's cross.
Named man of the match, Jackson expressed satisfaction post-game: “I am very happy to have started on this note by scoring two goals and hopefully it is the start of many goals to come. Most importantly we won the match and played well. It is an important victory but now it is behind us and we will move our focus to the next game.”
This result positions Senegal strongly in their group, highlighting their balance of experience and attacking prowess against a resilient but outmatched Botswana side.
