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Senegal 3-0 Botswana: Nicolas Jackson scores brace in easy win at Afcon 2025


Senegal are among the favourites to lift the Nations Cup trophy in Rabat on 18 January.

With a deep squad packed full of talent at both ends of the pitch, this fixture always looked likely to be a comfortable start to the tournament.

The Teranga Lions managed 28 shots in total, with 17 on target, keeping Phoko busy throughout.

The attacking quartet of Jackson, Mane, Ndiaye and Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr combined well, but coach Pape Thiaw will hope their finishing improves as the tournament progresses.

Jackson passed up a wonderful chance to complete his hat-trick with 15 minutes remaining, leaning back and blazing over after having done well to work the space inside the penalty area.

The 24-year-old has failed to oust Harry Kane as Bayern’s number one striker, scoring five goals so far this season, leading to reports that his time in Germany will be limited to just one season.

If that is the case, Afcon presents him with the perfect opportunity to showcase his talents on the big stage – and potentially attract new suitors.

While Senegal can be expected to cruise into the knockout stage, Botswana have it all to do as they bid to improve their record at the finals.

Making just their second appearance at an Afcon, they lost all three matches in 2012.

This performance in rainy Tangier points towards another damp squib for the Zebras and their supporters.



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