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Sadio Mané’s influence and leadership set the tone as Senegal opened their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 campaign with a commanding 3–0 victory over Botswana on Tuesday evening in Tangier.
While Nicholas Jackson grabbed the headlines with a well-taken brace, it was Mané’s energy, movement and attacking intent that inspired the Lions of Teranga to a dominant performance from the opening whistle. The former champions controlled possession throughout and pinned Botswana deep in their own half, creating a steady stream of chances.
Mané was heavily involved in Senegal’s early pressure, forcing goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko into a pair of sharp saves as Senegal sought an early breakthrough. His constant movement unsettled the Botswana defence and created space for teammates to exploit.
The pressure finally told five minutes before halftime when Jackson broke the deadlock with a first-time finish from Ismail Jakobs’ cross, a goal that reflected Senegal’s superiority. With Mané continuing to drive the team forward after the break, Senegal doubled their advantage in the 58th minute as Jackson struck again, finishing off a pass from Ismaila Sarr.
Senegal remained in control until the final whistle, and substitute Chérif Ndiaye added a third goal in stoppage time to cap off an assured performance and underline their title credentials.
The emphatic win provides Senegal with a confident start as they look to reclaim the AFCON crown they surrendered in 2023, with Mané once again proving a key figure in guiding the team on the continental stage.
