AFCON 2025: Mozambique Shock Gabon

AFCON 2025: Mozambique Shock Gabon

Sampson Adedeji

Mozambique produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after claiming a stunning 3-2 victory over Gabon, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Mambas, who had endured a 16-match winless run on the continental stage, finally ended their long drought with a spirited and clinical display at the Stade Adrar.

Mozambique took the lead in the 37th minute when Faizal Bangal powered home a header from a well-delivered cross by Geny Catamo. 

The Southern Africans doubled their advantage just five minutes later after Dominguês was brought down in the penalty area by Gabon captain Bruno Ecuele Manga.

Catamo calmly stepped up to convert the spot-kick, sending the ball into the bottom-left corner to put Mozambique firmly in control.

Gabon pulled one back deep into first-half stoppage time through captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. 

The veteran forward reacted quickest to a rebound after Didier Ndong’s effort was saved, further enhancing his reputation as one of the oldest goalscorers in AFCON finals history.

Any hopes of a Gabonese comeback were dented shortly after the restart.

 In the 52nd minute, Diogo Calila rose highest inside the box to meet a cross from Witi, heading emphatically into the roof of the net to restore Mozambique’s two-goal cushion.

Gabon responded by reshuffling their attack, introducing Alex Moucketou-Moussounda and Royce Openda in search of a way back into the contest.

 The pressure eventually paid off in the 86th minute when Moucketou-Moussounda fired home from close range following a corner kick, setting up a tense finale.

Despite late efforts from Mario Lemina and Jacques Ekomié, Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane stood firm, producing a series of crucial saves to preserve the lead.

The final whistle confirmed a historic moment for Mozambique, ending nearly four decades of waiting for a win at the Africa Cup of Nations and marking one of the standout results of AFCON 2025.