Mozambique Secure Historic First AFCON Win After 39 Years With Dramatic Victory Over Gabon

Mozambique recorded a landmark moment in their Africa Cup of Nations history on Sunday after edging Gabon 3–2 in an action-packed Group F encounter in Agadir, ending a 39-year wait for their first-ever victory at the tournament.

The Mambas came into the contest carrying a long-standing AFCON drought, having failed to win any of their previous matches across six appearances since their debut in 1986. That run finally came to an end under the Agadir lights, as they showed composure, resilience and attacking intent against a more experienced Gabonese side.

Faisal Bangal opened the scoring late in the first half before Geny Catamo doubled Mozambique’s advantage from the penalty spot, giving them a deserved 2–1 lead at the break. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled one back for Gabon in added time of the first half, keeping the contest finely balanced.

Goals, pressure and a nervy finish

Mozambique restored their two-goal cushion shortly after the restart when defender Diogo Calila powered home a header from close range, punishing a lapse in Gabon’s defensive marking.

Despite being ranked significantly lower than their opponents, Mozambique continued to press and create chances, hitting the woodwork and forcing saves as they looked to put the game beyond reach.

Gabon, however, refused to fade. Aubameyang remained a constant threat, and the pressure eventually paid off in the 76th minute when Alex Moussounda fired home from a crowded goalmouth to set up a tense final phase.

Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane produced crucial saves late on to deny both Aubameyang and Didier Ndong, helping his side withstand a sustained Gabonese push for an equalizer.

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The victory leaves Mozambique level on three points with defending champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon in Group F, significantly boosting their hopes of progressing beyond the group stage.

For Gabon, the defeat marked a second consecutive loss, leaving their AFCON campaign hanging by a thread.