Teranga Lions coach praises disciplined performance but warns against complacency in title defense.

Pape Thiaw

Thiaw Calls for Continued Focus After Convincing Opener

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has urged his players to “keep going like this” following their dominant 3-0 victory over Botswana in the AFCON 2025 Group D opener at the Grand Stade de Tangier on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

The Teranga Lions controlled the game from start to finish, despite heavy rainfall reducing attendance to around 18,500 in the 68,000-capacity venue.

Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a tap-in from Ismail Jakobs‘ cross, then doubled the lead in the 58th after relentless pressure.

Substitute Chérif Ndiaye added a third in the 78th minute with a composed finish.

Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko was outstanding, making multiple saves to prevent a heavier defeat as Senegal racked up 28 shots.

Thiaw praised the discipline: “We have to keep going like this. There are no easy opening matches.”

The win sends a strong message from the defending champions as they aim for back-to-back titles, a feat not achieved in 15 years.

Senegal supporters brought energy with drums and dances, adding color despite the weather.

Next: DR Congo on December 27.