Gabon Announces Squad for 2017 AFCON Preparatory Matches — Lemina Joins Aubameyang and Co.
With the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, host nation Gabon has unveiled a 24-man squad for upcoming friendlies against Niger (June 6) and Ivory Coast (June 14). While their matches will not count toward qualification due to their host status, the Panthers are treating these games as key tests in their build-up to the tournament.
Big News: Lemina Commits to Gabon
The headline from coach Jorge Costa’s squad announcement is the long-awaited debut of Mario Lemina. The Olympique de Marseille midfielder, a former France U20 World Champion, has now pledged his international future to Gabon, posing in Libreville alongside President Ali Bongo earlier this week. His inclusion adds both flair and European experience to an already solid midfield.
Key Returnees
Gabon’s core remains intact, with regulars like Didier Ovono, Bruno Ecuele Manga, André Biyogo Poko, and superstar forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the way.
🔹 Full Squad List
Goalkeepers
Didier Ovono (KV Oostende, Belgium)
Anthony M’fa Mezui (FC Metz, France)
Stephane Bitseki Moto (CF Mounana, Gabon)
Defenders
Johan Obiang (Châteauroux, France)
Junior Oto’o Zue (SC Braga B, Portugal)
Benjamin Ze Ondo (ES Sétif, Algeria)
Lloyd Palun (OGC Nice, France)
Bruno Ecuele Manga (Cardiff City, England)
Aaron Appindangoye (Boavista FC, Portugal)
Yrondu Musavu-King (SM Caen, France)
Henri Ndong (AJ Auxerre, France)
Midfielders
André Biyogo Poko (Bordeaux, France)
Didier Ibrahim Ndong (FC Lorient, France)
Lévy Madinda (Celta Vigo, Spain)
Samson Mbingui (MC El Eulma, Algeria)
Kanga Guelor (FC Rostov, Russia)
Merlin Tandjigora (FC Istres, France)
Mario Lemina (Olympique de Marseille, France)
Franck Engonga (OC Khouribga, Morocco)
Forwards
Frédéric Bulot (Charlton Athletic, England)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Borussia Dortmund, Germany)
Malick Evouna (WAC Casablanca, Morocco)
Romuald Ntsitsigui (AS Mangasport, Gabon)
Johan Lengoualama (RS Berkane, Morocco)
Upcoming Friendlies
June 6: Niger vs Gabon (in Niamey)
June 14: Gabon vs Ivory Coast (in Libreville)
With a blend of experience and promising youth, Jorge Costa’s side is shaping up well as they continue preparations to impress on home soil in 2017.