Bayern Munich forward Nicolas Jackson fired a brilliant brace as Senegal opened their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with an emphatic 3–0 victory over Botswana on Tuesday night in Tangier.
On loan from Chelsea, Jackson struck in both halves before Cherif Ndiaye sealed the scoreline late on, sending the Teranga Lions to the top of Group D on goal difference ahead of DR Congo, who defeated Benin earlier in Rabat.
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Ranked a massive 119 places above Botswana, Senegal were overwhelming favourites — and they delivered exactly as expected.
Heavy rain welcomed both teams onto the pitch, but Senegal wasted no time asserting their authority. Jackson was denied inside three minutes by goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, who repeatedly came to Botswana’s rescue as Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye and Jackson piled on the pressure.
However, the breakthrough finally came after 40 minutes when Ismail Jakobs pulled back a superb ball for Jackson, who reacted sharply to slot home beyond Phoko.
Botswana briefly threatened on the stroke of half-time with a free-kick opportunity but failed to capitalise.
Senegal resumed after the break with the same intensity and was rewarded when a swift passing move carved open Botswana’s backline. Jackson rounded defender Mosha Gaolaolwe before calmly tapping in Senegal’s second in the 58th minute.
With the result secured, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw introduced 17-year-old PSG starlet Ibrahim Mbaye, continuing his integration of youth into the senior setup.
In the 90th minute, Cherif Ndiaye completed the rout with a composed finish following another fluid attacking move.
The win puts Senegal firmly in control of their group, with both Senegal and DR Congo now favourites to secure qualification to the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Botswana and Benin face what is likely a decisive clash on Saturday.