Two goals from Nicolas Jackson helped Senegal ease to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Botswana in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
Much of the Group D encounter in Tangier was played in torrential rain, with Botswana struggling to cope as the 2021 champions launched wave after wave of attacks.
Zebra’s goalkeeper, Goitseone Phoko, made an early bid for player of the match in the opening half hour, keeping out efforts from the likes of Sadio Mane and Iliman Ndiaye.
But five minutes before the break, Jackson swept home a pinpoint left-wing cross from full-back Ismail Jakobs after being left unmarked in the area.
The Chelsea striker, currently on loan at Bayern Munich, grabbed his second with a neat finish in the 58th minute, before substitute Cherif Ndiaye wrapped things up in the final minute of standard time.
Botswana, who have never won a match at Afcon, never threatened their opponents and will need to improve against Benin in Rabat on Saturday (12:30 GMT) if they want to change that unwanted statistic.
Senegal moved to the top of Group D on goal difference above DR Congo, who they face back in Tangier on the same day (15:00 GMT).
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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