Senegal Begin AFCON 2025 Journey Against Fearless Botswana in Tangier
Senegal are set to open their AFCON 2025 campaign with a high-profile clash against Botswana, and there’s already a strong sense that this match could set the tone for both teams’ journeys in Morocco. The encounter, scheduled at the Grand Stadium of Tangier, brings together a reigning powerhouse of African football and a side eager to reintroduce itself on the continent after years away from the spotlight.
For Senegal, this opening game is being viewed as a crucial first step rather than a formality. As former champions, expectations have followed the Teranga Lions into the tournament, but it has been made clear by both players and coaching staff that reputations alone will not carry them through. Lessons were learned from the previous edition, where an early knockout exit came despite lofty status. This time, focus and discipline have been stressed, and it has been acknowledged that every match must be approached with humility and intent.
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The squad arrives in Tangier in impressive form. A flawless qualification campaign was completed, confidence was boosted by a commanding friendly win over England, and momentum was further strengthened with a dominant warm-up victory over Kenya. Yet, it has been repeatedly pointed out that AFCON rarely follows scripts, and early complacency has often been punished in this competition.
On the other side, Botswana step onto the AFCON stage for the first time in 13 years, and that return alone has injected belief into the Zebras’ camp. While they are widely viewed as underdogs in a tough Group D that also includes DR Congo and Benin, pressure has largely been absent. Instead, preparation and quiet confidence have defined their build-up. It has been said that this tournament represents more than just participation; it is a chance to be seen, tested, and respected.
Coach Morena Ramoreboli has spoken openly about the challenge Senegal present, describing them as flexible and intelligent in how they adapt to games. Still, it has been emphasised that Botswana will focus on their own strengths rather than being overawed. The message has been echoed by captain Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, who has insisted that qualification itself proved their quality and that fear will not be carried onto the pitch.
From the Senegalese perspective, leadership has been a central theme. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly, preparing for yet another AFCON, has highlighted the importance of calm, especially with a squad that includes several young players. Hunger, he has said, still exists despite past success, and responsibility now lies in guiding the next generation.
As kick-off approaches, the contrast is clear. Senegal aim to impose control and confirm their status early, while Botswana seek to frustrate, compete, and possibly surprise. In a tournament famous for the unexpected, this opening whistle will mark not just a game, but the beginning of two very different, yet equally compelling, AFCON stories.
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