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Mozambique Surprises Gabon and Celebrates Its First Victory in the AFCON
Mozambique secures its first-ever historic win in AFCON 2025, defeating Gabon 3-2 in a match full of goals, drama, and excitement until the final whistle.
Mozambique makes history with a 3-2 thriller over Gabon
Mozambique achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Gabon 3-2 in a thrilling Group F encounter at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir. The Mambas, led by Chiquinho Conde, showed determination and efficiency, overcoming the pressure from a star-studded Gabon side and maintaining their lead until the final whistle.
The match was an emotional rollercoaster from the first goal. Faisal Bangal opened the scoring with a precise header from a perfect cross by Geny Catamo, igniting celebrations among Mozambican fans. Just five minutes later, a penalty awarded for a foul on Domingués allowed Catamo to calmly convert, putting Mozambique up 2-0 before halftime.
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Aubameyang narrows the gap and keeps Gabon's hopes alive
Just when Mozambique seemed in control, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck during first-half stoppage time to reduce the deficit. The veteran forward, one of the oldest goalscorers in AFCON history, capitalized on a rebound after an initial save by goalkeeper Ernan Siluane, bringing the score to 2-1 and creating a tense close to the first half.
Gabon looked to respond with tactical adjustments and a more aggressive attack, while Mozambique needed to stay focused to retain control of the match.
Diogo Calila restores the lead and the Mambas dream big
Only seven minutes into the second half, Mozambique extended their lead again thanks to Diogo Calila. The right-back met a precise cross from Witi, rising above the defense to head the ball into the net, making it 3-1. This goal restored confidence for the Mambas and forced Gabon to search for a miracle to stay alive in the tournament.
The tension continued until the final minutes, with Alex Moucketou-Moussounda scoring for Gabon in the 77th minute following a rebound off Ernan Siluane, ensuring a dramatic finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Mozambique holds on to celebrate a historic win
In the closing moments, Mozambique displayed solid defending and a goalkeeper in top form. Ernan Siluane made several crucial saves to preserve the 3-2 victory. This result marks a turning point: the Mambas earn three points and keep their hopes of advancing in Group F alive, while Gabon remains at the bottom of the group without points.
