AFCON: Botswana coach Ramoreboli concedes Senegal defeat

Botswana national team coach Morena Ramoreboli admitted Senegal were the better side during their opening fixture of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

After holding for the first 40 minutes, the Zebras finally cracked allowing the Lions of Teranga to secure a 3-0 Tangier with Nicolas Jackson scoring in each half.

Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko produced a series of outstanding saves to keep the scoreline level through much of the first half. The Zebras’ stopper denied Jackson twice at close range, reacted sharply to keep out efforts from Sadio Mané, and produced another fine intervention to stop Iliman Ndiaye as Senegal pressed relentlessly.

Botswana will correct mistakes against Senegal

“It was a very competitive match and dealing with the experienced Senegal players on the wings gave us a lot of problems as we struggled to cope with their pace,” Ramoreboli told CAFOnline.com.

“But we did very well to contain them in many areas especially knowing that they were seen as the favourites for the match. We will correct our mistakes in the game to ensure we improve in those areas before the next game.”

Senegal took the lead when Ismail Jakobs delivered a precise cross from the left, and Jackson met it first time with a composed finish. Senegal doubled their advantage after Ismaila Sarr set up Jackson, who applied a composed finish.

Cherif Ndiaye, who had replaced Jackson moments earlier, to put the gloss on an emphatic opening-night display.

Botswana will next face Benin before concluding their Group D fixtures against DR Congo.