AFCON 2015: Gabon Departs in Silence After Disappointing Elimination
After a promising start to the tournament, Gabon’s journey in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations came to an abrupt end following a 2-0 defeat to host nation Equatorial Guinea. On Monday, the Panthers officially packed their bags and left their hotel in Bata, marking a somber end to what many hoped would be a historic run.
😔 A Gloomy Departure
The atmosphere at the team hotel was heavy. Players appeared visibly downcast, many silently scrolling through their phones in the lobby while others stayed secluded in their rooms. Staff quietly loaded luggage into waiting vehicles as Jorge Costa’s squad prepared to head home.
Several players are reportedly heading straight back to their clubs in Europe, transiting through Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
❌ Group Stage Exit
Despite a victory in their opening game against Burkina Faso, Gabon faltered when it mattered most, losing to Congo and then to Equatorial Guinea, ultimately finishing third in Group A and failing to reach the knockout stages.
The early exit sparked disappointment not just among fans, but also among players and officials, many of whom pointed to refereeing decisions and lack of team cohesion as contributing factors.
📸 Scenes from Departure
Photos captured by Africa Top Sports show the players’ quiet and subdued farewell from their AFCON base—an image that contrasts sharply with the expectations placed on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and his teammates at the start of the tournament.
✈️ What’s Next?
With AFCON 2015 behind them, Gabon now turns its focus to the future. Questions remain regarding the direction of the national team, potential changes in management, and the buildup to the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, which Gabon is set to host.
One thing is certain: this early elimination will linger in the minds of fans and players alike for some time.
