AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Gabon beat Lesotho 2-0 to strengthen Group A hopes

Gabon continued their push for qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after securing a 2-0 victory over Lesotho in their Group A encounter at Stade de Franceville on Friday.

The Panthers dominated possession for much of the contest but had to wait until the second half to break down a resilient Lesotho defence.

Gabon were handed an opportunity to take the lead in the 62nd minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Denis Bouanga failed to convert from the spot.

The forward made amends just two minutes later, finding the back of the net in the 64th minute to put the hosts ahead.

Bouanga then completed his brace in the 75th minute, converting another penalty to give Gabon a comfortable two-goal advantage.

Lesotho struggled to respond despite their efforts to get back into the contest, with Gabon maintaining control until the final whistle.

The victory takes Gabon to six points from three matches, keeping them firmly in contention for the top two positions in Group A. Lesotho remain without a point after three consecutive defeats.

The two teams will meet again in the return fixture on November 17.