Senegal start AFCON as heavy favourites against Botswana; punters may favor Senegal on a -2 Asian handicap or back over 2.5–3.5 goals given Senegal’s Europe-based attack and Botswana’s largely domestic squad. Expect a comfortable Senegal win and a high-scoring opener in Tangier.
Senegal vs Botswana: Match Preview, Kick-off Details and Broadcasts
Match information
Date: Tuesday 23 December 2025 Kick-off: 15:00 GMT / 10:00 ET / 16:00 local Venue: Stade Ibn Batouta, Tangier
TV and streaming
In the UK the game will be shown live on 4seven and the Channel 4 streaming service (free with registration). In the US coverage is on beIN Sports; streaming access typically requires a cable or virtual MVPD (YouTube TV, Fubo, Sling, etc.). In Africa regional rights are held by Canal+ and SuperSport depending on the country. Coverage times may include pre-match build-up from about five minutes before kick-off. Geo-restrictions apply for some streams; using a VPN can help viewers access home-region rights while abroad.
Senegal: Continental heavyweights with European firepower
Squad and form
Senegal arrive as one of the tournament favourites after a strong qualifying phase. The squad is rich in European-based talent, featuring the likes of Iliman Ndiaye and Nicolas Jackson, plus midfield steel from Idrissa Gueye and defensive leadership from Kalidou Koulibaly, who captains the side. Coach Pape Thiaw has assembled a balanced team capable of controlling possession and creating multiple goal threats.
Key threats
Attack: Senegal’s forward line carries pace and finishing variety, meaning they can punish defensive lapses quickly. Set pieces: Koulibaly and senior heads offer aerial threat from dead-ball situations.
Botswana: Debut nerves and defensive resolve
Background and personnel
Botswana are making only their second Africa Cup of Nations appearance, having qualified via a second-place finish in their group. Most of the squad play domestically; only a handful are based abroad. Renei Batlokwa is among the few plying his trade outside Botswana, while veteran Mosha Gaolaolwe provides experience and leadership at the back with over 90 caps.
Strengths and limitations
Defensive organisation and experience will be key for Botswana if they are to frustrate Senegal. However, limited exposure to top-level European opposition and a largely domestic player pool make them vulnerable to sustained pressure and pace on the counter.
Tactical outlook
Senegal are likely to dominate possession and probe for openings, exploiting wide areas and set-piece situations. Botswana will probably set up compactly, aiming to limit space through the middle and seek damage-limiting counterattacks. Expect Senegal to push hard early to settle the contest and avoid an open, end-to-end struggle.
Betting outlook and prediction
Market view: Senegal are clear favourites. Reasonable betting options include backing Senegal to win with a handicap (e.g., -2 Asian handicap) for bigger-value punters, or taking the match to produce multiple goals (over 2.5 or over 3.5) given the gulf in attacking quality. Consider player-specific markets for Senegal’s frontmen if you prefer goal-scorer bets.
Score prediction: Senegal 4-0 Botswana. Senegal should be comfortably superior and are expected to open their campaign with a high-scoring victory.
How to watch DR Congo vs Benin: Live streams, TV coverage for Africa Cup of Nations contest
Iliman Ndiaye and Nicolas Jackson enter the AFCON stage as heavily-fancied Senegal play Botswana in Group D – here's how to watch the game online and on TV.
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