Senegal set to stamp authority at Grand Stade de Tanger
Senegal arrive in Tanger with form that reads like a statement of intent. The Lions have ripped through recent fixtures with heavy scorelines: an 8-0 demolition of Kenya, a 5-0 win in Juba, and comfortable victories over Mauritania and DR Congo. Those results underline a team that is scoring freely and intimidating opponents well before kick-off. The fixture at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 23/12/2025 looks designed for one-way traffic: Senegal’s firepower and confidence against a Botswana side that has struggled for consistency.
Botswana’s recent results show a team that can defend at times and earn draws — the 2-2 stalemate with Guinea and a couple of 1-1 draws — but they also carry several defeats, including defeats to Algeria and Mozambique. Their one win amid ten-match form suggests they arrive as clear underdogs. Historically, these two met at AFCON qualification back in 2014 when Senegal ran out 3-0 winners, and with Senegal’s current rhythm, that memory feels well within reach for the home side again.
Match dynamics and what to expect
Expect Senegal to dominate possession, press high and look for early openings. The team’s recent high-scoring friendlies and qualifiers give them a psychological edge; a quick goal could turn the contest into a rout given Botswana’s vulnerability against elite attacking sides. While Botswana have shown they can be stubborn, particularly in groups where they farm a draw, they rarely shut down a top-tier African heavyweight when that opponent brings both pace and precision.
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Conclusion and betting suggestion
Bookmakers have installed Senegal as heavy favorites (1.20), reflecting the data and recent match reports. With Botswana’s defensive lapses against stronger opposition and Senegal’s red-hot scoring run, the soundest single-market play is the 1X2 market: back Senegal to win. This selection aligns with form, history and the odds profile — a pragmatic tip for those seeking value on match day.
