Gabon National Team Suspended After AFCON Exit

Gabon’s national football team is facing substantial repercussions following their disappointing performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The government has implemented significant measures, including the suspension of the team, the dismissal of their coach, and the removal of star player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Government Action Following Disgraceful Performance

On January 1, 2026, the acting Minister of Sports, Simplice-Desire Mamboula, announced the suspension of the national team after they finished in last place in their group during the tournament held in Morocco. The announcement was made during a televised statement, highlighting the team’s failures after suffering three consecutive losses.

“Given the Panthers’ disgraceful performance at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dissolve the coaching staff, suspend the national team until further notice, and exclude players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang,”

Poor Performance at AFCON

The team, guided by former defender Thierry Mouyouma, had a brutal tournament, losing their initial matches against Cameroon and Mozambique. Despite leading 2-0 against the Ivory Coast in their final group-stage game, they conceded three goals, resulting in a heartbreaking defeat to a less-than-full-strength Ivorian squad.

Aubameyang’s Reaction and Future

Neither Aubameyang nor the seasoned defender Ecuele Manga participated in the final match. Aubameyang had returned to his club, Olympique de Marseille, to recover from a thigh injury. He expressed his thoughts on social media, emphasizing that the issues facing the team were deeper than just his individual performance.

At 36 years old, Aubameyang may have played his last competitive match for Gabon during their loss to Mozambique. His teammate, Ecuele Manga, who is 37, is likely in a similar situation as well.

RARE Government Intervention in Football

While disbanding national teams is a strategy that has been historically employed in Africa following poor performances, FIFA’s strict stance against governmental interference in football operations has made such actions more uncommon in recent times.

Conclusion

The unexpected suspension of Gabon’s football team indicates a serious reckoning following a disappointing outing at the AFCON. With key players like Aubameyang facing uncertain futures, the national team’s landscape is likely to undergo significant changes in the near future.

• Gabon’s national team has been suspended after failing to perform at AFCON.
• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga have been expelled from the squad.
• The team’s last match ended in defeat after initially leading 2-0.
• Government interventions in football are becoming increasingly rare due to FIFA regulations.