By Kwame Bediako
Gabon’s government has taken drastic action following the national football team’s humiliating elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, suspending the squad indefinitely, dissolving the coaching staff, and banning star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang along with captain Bruno Ecuele Manga.
The Panthers crashed out of Group F without a single point, suffering defeats to Cameroon, Mozambique, and a dramatic 3-2 loss to Ivory Coast in their final match in Marrakech.
Despite leading 2-0 early against the defending champions’ second-string side, Gabon conceded three goals to finish bottom of the group, sparking widespread outrage.
Acting Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula announced the decisions on national television, citing the team’s “disgraceful performance” as contrary to national values.
Aubameyang, the 36-year-old former African Footballer of the Year currently with Olympique de Marseille, did not feature in the Ivory Coast game due to a thigh injury but faced exclusion alongside the 37-year-old Ecuele Manga, who boasts 118 caps.
The striker responded on social media, stating the team’s issues run “much deeper than the individual I am.” Reports indicate Aubameyang left the tournament early, amid tensions between his club and the national setup over his injury management.
President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema voiced deep disappointment, arguing the failures undermine national identity and highlight poor management in Gabonese sports.
The move echoes past African responses to poor results but risks FIFA scrutiny, as the governing body opposes government interference in football associations.
This shake-up leaves Gabon’s football future uncertain, with the national team on hold until further notice and key veterans sidelined, prompting calls for a thorough overhaul.
