Nicolas Jackson scored twice as Senegal began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Botswana in Tangier. The Chelsea striker broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, converting Ismail Jakobs' low cross, before adding a second just before the hour mark with a close-range finish from Ismaïla Sarr's pass.
Senegal, who won the tournament in 2021 and are among the favourites again, dominated throughout, registering 28 attempts on goal. Cherif Ndiaye added a third late on, slotting home from Cheikh Sabaly's cross to seal a comprehensive win in Group D.
Earlier, the Democratic Republic of Congo secured a 1-0 victory over Benin in the same group. Théo Bongonda scored the only goal in the 16th minute, volleying home after a long pass. DR Congo had a second-half effort from Cédric Bakambu ruled out for offside following a VAR check, and goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made a late save to deny Aiyegun Tosin a dramatic equaliser.
