The Senegal national team confidently began their title defense journey, achieving a crushing victory with a score of 3:0 against the Botswana national team. Nicolas Jackson scored twice, and the third goal was added by Sheriff Ndiaye, who came on as a substitute. Despite Botswana's active efforts and impressive saves from goalkeeper Goitseone Foko, the Senegalese completely controlled the flow of the game.
As for Group C, Nigeria managed to secure a victory over Tanzania with a tense score of 2:1. Semih Ajayi opened the scoring in the first half, but Charles M'Momba soon equalized the game. Nevertheless, Ademola Lookman quickly restored the lead for the Super Eagles, and the team held onto it until the final whistle. Star player Victor Osimhen was left disappointed as his goal was disallowed for offside.
In Group D, Congo achieved a narrow victory over Benin with a score of 1:0, thanks to an early goal from Theo Bongonda.
Thus, Senegal confirmed their intentions to defend the title, while Nigeria and Tunisia showcased tense and dramatic matches at the start of the tournament.
