Gabon coach Anicet Yala insists his side must secure victory against Gambia in their CHAN 2025 qualifier to keep their tournament hopes alive.
The Panthers face the Scorpions on Saturday in Franceville after a goalless first-leg draw left them with no margin for error.
Speaking to the media ahead of the decisive encounter, Yala expressed confidence in his team’s preparation.
“We have no choice but to win, especially since this 0-0 draw is not necessarily advantageous for us. It is simply a matter of winning, without any calculations to be made,” he stated.
The coach acknowledged the pressure on his squad but remained optimistic about their readiness.
Yala highlighted the importance of the additional preparation time his side had compared to the first leg.
“We trained well, the team is ready to play a good match tomorrow. We had a week to work, which we lacked in the first match, and I think we are ready to play a good match.”
Yala confirmed minor tactical adjustments would be made but ruled out sweeping changes. “There will be changes, but certainly not more than two,” he revealed.
Captain Samson Mbigui echoed his coach’s sentiments, calling on the team to rise to the occasion.
With the backing of the Franceville crowd, Gabon aims to deliver a decisive performance and secure their place in the next round of the qualifiers.
