AFCON 2015: Aubameyang Inspires Gabon to Impressive Win Over Burkina Faso
Gabon made a powerful statement in their opening match of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Burkina Faso 2-0 in Group A and positioning themselves as early contenders for a place in the knockout stages.
It was star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who led the charge, opening the scoring in the 19th minute with a brilliant solo effort that underlined his class and attacking threat. The Borussia Dortmund forward’s pace and precision were too much for the Burkinabé defence to handle.
Gabon continued to dominate, showing greater urgency and aggression in attack. Their pressure paid off again in the 72nd minute when Frédéric Bulot delivered a pinpoint cross from the left, which was met by Malick Evouna’s powerful header to seal the win.
Aubameyang, speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI) after the match, praised his team’s clinical approach.
“I don’t know if we’re expected to do much at this AFCON, but we want to cause harm,” he said. “When we play our football, we keep the ball well and put the opponent under pressure. That’s what makes the difference. Both goals were superbly executed. It’s fantastic!”
Midfielder Frédéric Bulot, who played a key role in the second goal, echoed the captain’s sentiments.
“Today, we showed what we’re capable of with this 2-0 victory. It gives us real confidence for what’s to come.”
Teammate André Biyogo Poko acknowledged the challenge posed by the 2013 AFCON runners-up but was pleased with the result.
“It was a difficult match, as it always is against Burkina Faso. But we had a bit of luck on our side today.”
Burkina Faso, who had come into the tournament with high hopes after finishing as runners-up two years ago, were left frustrated by their inability to convert chances and their defensive lapses. Despite a spirited effort from Bertrand Traoré and goalkeeper Germain Sanou, they struggled to match Gabon’s intensity and efficiency in the final third.
With the victory, Gabon not only took all three points but also claimed the top spot in Group A, ahead of Equatorial Guinea and Congo, who drew 1-1 earlier in the day. The result also gives the Panthers a slight edge in the race for a quarterfinal spot as they prepare for their next challenge.
As the tournament progresses, Gabon’s combination of flair, discipline, and leadership from Aubameyang could make them one of the teams to watch.
