In a historic and pulsating encounter in Agadir, Mozambique finally ended their long Africa Cup of Nations drought, securing a first tournament victory in four decades with a dramatic 3-2 win over Gabon.
A Historic Breakthrough After 40 Years
The southern African side, inspired by their veteran 42-year-old winger Elias Pelembe, delivered a performance full of heart to claim a deserved three points. This monumental result marks their first win at the continental finals since their debut appearance in 1986, ending a barren run spanning 17 matches across multiple tournaments.
Calila's Roar Caps Memorable Victory
Mozambique took control of the Group F clash with goals from Faisal Bangal and Geny Catamo putting them in a commanding position. The moment of pure elation came when Diogo Calila found the net to make it 3-1, his triumphant roar captured in a now-iconic image that symbolised the end of a long wait for his nation.
Gabon, featuring former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, refused to surrender quietly. Aubameyang himself got on the scoresheet, with Alex Moucketou-Moussounda also netting to set up a tense finale. However, back-to-back defeats for Gabon have left their tournament hopes hanging by the slenderest of threads.
Group F Implications and Gabon's Precarious Position
The consequences of this result are severe for Gabon. Having lost both of their opening matches, their fate is now out of their hands. They face defending champions Ivory Coast in their final group game on Wednesday, needing a victory and other results to go their way to have any chance of progression.
For Mozambique, the victory propels them to three points from two games, level with group heavyweights Ivory Coast and Cameroon. If the clash between those two later on Sunday ends in a draw, Gabon will be mathematically eliminated from Afcon 2025 before they even take to the pitch again.
This historic win not only revives Mozambique's campaign but also writes a new chapter in their footballing history, finally laying to rest a 40-year ghost at the Africa Cup of Nations.
