AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Bounou expects tough Morocco test against Gabon

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has warned his teammates against underestimating Gabon ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, describing the Panthers as an opponent that has regularly troubled the Atlas Lions.

Morocco begin their Group A campaign against Gabon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with Bounou expecting a difficult encounter.

Bounou wary of Gabon threat

The Al Hilal goalkeeper said Morocco were happy to reunite for international duty just over two months after their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

“The players arrived in good condition. We really wanted to return to the national team, especially in front of our supporters, and honestly, we are very happy,” Bounou said.

The 34-year-old added that the relatively short period since the World Cup had helped maintain familiarity within the squad.

“The group has already been together, and only around two months have passed since the World Cup, so it hasn’t been long,” he said. “The players are happy to be back and to play for the national team, especially in Rabat.”

Bounou then highlighted Gabon’s record of giving Morocco difficult matches in the past.

“It will be a tough match. As we know, Gabon are not an ordinary opponent. They have always caused us problems, whether in qualifiers or at the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.

Despite his warning, Bounou expressed confidence in Morocco’s preparations ahead of the opening qualifier.

“I think we are well prepared for this match, and God willing, the result will be a good one,” Bounou added.

Morocco begin AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign

Morocco’s meeting with Gabon is scheduled for 19:00 GMT on September 25 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The Atlas Lions are in Group A alongside Gabon, Niger and Lesotho, with the top two teams qualifying for the 2027 AFCON tournament.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Gabon arrive in Rabat under new head coach Sébastien Migné and without former captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has retired from international football.

Denis Bouanga, Mario Lemina and Guélor Kanga are among the experienced players selected for the opening qualifiers.

Morocco will then travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa, to face Lesotho on September 29.