Mozambique Ends 39-Year AFCON Drought With Thrilling Win Over Gabon

Mozambique secured their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory on Sunday, defeating Gabon 3-2 in a Group F match in Agadir. The historic win ends a 39-year wait since their tournament debut in 1986.

The Mambas, who had previously drawn four and lost 12 AFCON matches, took a 2-1 halftime lead through goals from Faisal Bangal and Geny Catamo. Diogo Calila added a third after the break to secure the crucial victory.

Gabon fought back with goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alex Moussounda, twice cutting two-goal deficits but ultimately suffering their second consecutive tournament loss.

The result leaves Mozambique level with defending champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon on three points in Group F, with all three teams now in strong contention for knockout stage qualification.

Mozambique, ranked 24 places below Gabon internationally, displayed superior attacking intent throughout the match. Bangal’s header opened the scoring in the 37th minute, followed by Catamo’s penalty just before halftime.

Despite Aubameyang pulling one back before the break, Calila’s second-half header proved decisive, though Moussounda’s late goal ensured a tense finish. Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane made several key saves to preserve the historic victory.