Mozambique win first-ever AFCON match against Aubameyang’s Gabon
Mozambique recorded their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory after edging Gabon 3-2 in a gripping Group F clash in Agadir on Sunday, keeping their qualification hopes alive.
Chiquinho Conde’s side combined energy with efficiency, capitalising on key moments to secure a landmark result despite sustained pressure from Gabon in the closing stages.
First-half surge sets the tone
The contest opened at an even tempo, but Mozambique gradually asserted themselves and looked more purposeful in attack.
Their breakthrough arrived in the 37th minute when Geny Catamo’s corner was met by Faisal Bangal, whose header put Mozambique ahead.
Momentum swung decisively in their favour minutes later as Catamo converted from the penalty spot to make it 2-0, capping a dominant spell.
Gabon stay alive before the break
Gabon responded almost immediately, punishing a costly error from goalkeeper Ernan. His punch fell kindly for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who finished clinically to reduce the deficit just before half-time and shift the balance heading into the interval.
Mozambique strike again, then hold firm
Mozambique reasserted control early in the second half. Seven minutes after the restart, Witi surged down the left and delivered a precise cross that Diogo Calila headed home to restore a two-goal cushion.
Gabon refused to fold and pulled another goal back in the 77th minute through Alex Moucketou-Moussounda, reacting quickest after Ernan saved an initial effort from a corner.
The final stages were tense, but Mozambique defended with discipline to close out the result.
The win lifts Mozambique to third place in Group F on three points. Gabon remain bottom without a point. Mozambique face Cameroon next, while Gabon must beat Ivory Coast to keep their campaign alive.
