Mozambique pulled off a stunning 3-2 victory over Gabon in their AFCON 2025 opener at Le Grand Stade Agadir, with Geny Catamo earning Man of the Match honors for his decisive contributions.
The match kicked off with Mozambique striking first in the 37th minute. Faizal Bangal rose high to head home from a Geny Catamo corner, putting the Mambas 1-0 up just before halftime. Five minutes into added time, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leveled for Gabon with a clinical finish from the center of the box, making it 1-1 at the break.
The second half exploded with action. Geny Catamo converted a penalty in the 42nd minute after Bruno Ecuele Manga’s foul on Dominguês, restoring Mozambique’s lead at 2-1.
Diogo Calila then headed in the third goal in the 52nd minute from a Witi cross, extending the advantage to 3-1. Gabon fought back late, with Alex Moucketou-Moussounda nodding in a corner in the 76th minute to make it 3-2, but Mozambique held firm through seven minutes of stoppage time.
Catamo’s influence was everywhere, assists, penalty coolness, and late chances sealed his standout performance in this high-drama clash.
Mozambique will play Cameroon in their final group game on December 31st at the Stade Adrar.
