Mozambique finally ended their long-standing winless run at the Africa Cup of Nations with an impressive and composed performance at the Stade Adrar, defeating Gabon in a thrilling encounter.
After years of frustration on the continental stage, the Mambas showed confidence and precision, breaking the deadlock in the 37th minute when Faizal Bangal expertly headed in a brilliant delivery from Geny Catamo. Their momentum grew moments later when Dominguês was brought down in the box by Bruno Ecuele Manga, earning a penalty. Catamo stepped forward and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner to give Mozambique a commanding lead.
Gabon, however, refused to fade quietly. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reacted quickly to tap home a rebound after Didier Ndong’s effort was saved, becoming one of the oldest scorers in AFCON history and keeping his side in contention.
Any hopes of a Gabon resurgence were dealt an early blow in the second half when Diogo Calila powered home a towering header from Witi’s cross in the 52nd minute, restoring Mozambique’s two-goal advantage.
Gabon made several tactical adjustments as Alex Moucketou-Moussounda and Royce Openda were introduced to add attacking spark. Their persistence was rewarded late in the 86th minute, when Moucketou-Moussounda bundled in from close range following a corner to spark dramatic late tension.
Despite mounting pressure in the final moments, Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane stood firm, producing key saves to deny Mario Lemina and Jacques Ekomié.
When the final whistle sounded, it marked a historic milestone — Mozambique’s first AFCON victory in nearly 40 years, a triumph that will live long in the nation’s football history.
