Gabon appoint Anicet Yala as interim coach for Uzbekistan and Trinidad and Tobago friendlies

The Gabonese Football Federation has appointed Anicet Yala as the interim head coach for the Panthers ahead of the upcoming international break, as the country continues search for a substantive manager.

The domestic football governing moved to install a temporary solution following the departure of Thierry Mouyouma, who was dismissed after the Panthers’ disappointing early exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Yala will guide Gabon during the March international window, with his mandate expected to run from March 23 to March 31, 2026. His immediate responsibility will be to oversee the team during the upcoming FIFA Series tournament.

The former Gabon international is no stranger to the national team setup. Yala previously served as assistant coach under Patrice Neveu and has also worked with the country’s youth system as head coach of the Gabon U20 side. His familiarity with the squad and the federation’s structure is seen as an advantage as the Panthers navigate this transitional period.

During the FIFA Series, Gabon will face Uzbekistan national football team and Trinidad and Tobago national football team in friendly matches designed to provide international exposure and preparation for upcoming competitions.

The matches will offer Yala an opportunity to assess the squad and potentially test new players while the federation continues its search for a long-term managerial appointment.

For Gabon, the upcoming fixtures represent a chance to rebuild confidence after their recent continental disappointment, while also laying the groundwork for the future of the national team under new leadership.