The last few weeks would have surely been a time for reflection for many of the Gabon players, as they saw what was likely the last chance for several of these players to reach a FIFA World Cup. Gabon had a great qualifying campaign, but fell just short against Ivory Coast in the group phase, and then fell to Nigeria in the play-offs.
Gabon will have to put that dissapiontment aside and focus on the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, which again could be the last for some names that have become synonomous with the Gabon national team, names such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga.
Gabon qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by finishing second in their qualifying group, behind Morocco. Gabon were able to get the business done in matches where they were favored, against Lesotho and Central African Republic, but in the two matches against Morocco Gabon fell way short of what was needed. Gabon lost 4-1 and 5-1 respectively against Morocco, which will cause concern about this teams ability to get big results against the best on the continent.
Gabon will be one of, if not the oldest squad at this years Africa Cup of Nations. The majority of their starting XI are over 30. This feels like it could be the last chance for this generation of Gabonese players to lift silverware.
Potential Starting XI
Coach
Thierry Mouyouma
The former Gabon national team defender during his playing days, Mouyouma took charge of Gabon in 2023.
Players to Watch
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Age: 36
Position: CF
Caps/Goals: 84/39
Club: Olympique Marseille (France)
At 36, some think this could be the last time we see Aubameyang at an Africa Cup of Nations. Gabon’s all time top scorer will be appearing in his 6th AFCON.
Denis Bouanga
Age: 31
Position: LW/CF
Caps/Goals: 52/16
Club: Los Angeles FC (United States)
Bouanga is a regular in the Gabon side. The versatile forward can play anywhere on the front line. Recently was second behind Lionel Messi for top goalscorers in MLS this season.
Gabon Schedule
December 24, 2025 vs. Cameroon – Agadir
December 28, 2025 vs. Mozambique – Agadir
December 31, 2025 vs. Ivory Coast – Marrakesh
Country Information
Did you know…
Around 90% of Gabon is covered by rainforest, making it one of the most carbon-negative countries in Africa.
