Africa Cup of Nations 2025: Senegal-Botswana, the likely lineups

Group D of the African Cup of Nations 2025 closes its first day with the match between Senegal and Botswana. Kickoff at 4 p.m. at the Stade Ibn-Batouta in Tangier. The 2021 African champions come into the opener buoyed by the excitement of their recent qualification for the 2026 World Cup and with the label of one of the tournament’s big favorites. Of a different tenor is the approach of the opponents, at their second ever participation in the competition, aiming to surprise and chase a historic feat.

Thiaw relies on Jackson in attack, with Diallo in support in the three-quarter, complemented by Mané and Ndiaye who will act on the outsides. Midfield dike composed of Sarr and Gueye, defense headed by’former Napoli man Koulibaly.

Ramoreboli is banking on Orebonye in attack, with Sesinyy, Boy and Seakanyeng supporting in the three-quarter. Ditsele and Mohutsiwa will form the midfield hinge, while Velaphi and Gaolaolwe will form the defensive pair.

They will be in the middle of the field.

Probable lineups

Senegal (4-2-3-1): Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté, Diouf; Sarr, Gueye; Mane, Diallo, Ndiaye; Jackson. Coach: Thiaw.

Botswana (4-3-3): Dambe; Leinanyane, Velaphi, Gaolaolwe, Johnson; Ditsele, Mohutsiwa; Sesinyi, Boy, Seakanyeng; Orebonye. Coach: Ramoreboli.

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