The Teranga Lions start their AFCON 2025 journey with a Group-D opening test against Botswana.
The 2021 champions of the African Cup of Nations will officially kick-start their AFCON 2025 campaign against Botswana as the continental showpiece gets underway. The Teranga Lions arrive with high expectations and a squad brimming with experience, while Botswana look to cause an astonishing upset to arguably one of the tournament favourites.
Now, Senegal arrive at the AFCON 2025 carrying the weight of expectation after their recent continental success. For a side made with a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent, Pape Thiaw’s side will be keen to initiate a strong start and avert any early stumbles that could complicate their AFCON ambitions.
Meanwhile, Botswana in making their second appearance to the continent’s premier football tournament would seek to approach this crunchy fixture as an underdog but with nothing to lose. The Zebras have displayed resilience in recent competitive matches and will be hoping to frustrate Senegal with disciplined defending married with quick transitions, especially in the initial stages of the game.
Tactically, Senegal are anticipated to line up in a balanced formation that emphasizes defensive compatibility and pace on the flanks. Their energetic midfield will play a vital role in controlling the tempo of the game and dictating play, while the attacking front will seek to exploit the defensive spaces behind Botswana’s back line.
In this vein, Botswana are likely to deploy a compact shape, prioritizing organization and structure – with intentions of taking advantage of counterattacks and any set pieces which avails itself in and around the eighteen-yard box and corner kicks.
For Senegal, the prolific winger, Sadio Mane and some other established players would certainly bring their experience and exceptional talent to bear whiles Botswana will rely on collective discipline and standout individual performances, particularly in defence and midfield, to withstand Senegal’s attacking threat and remain competitive.
Prediction For The Game
On paper, Senegal are clear favorites, but AFCON openers are often unpredictable. Should Senegal impose their rhythm early, they should secure all three points.
