Gabon earned their spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a hard-fought 1-0 win against the Central African Republic at Orlando Stadium on Monday evening. The victory confirmed their qualification for the tournament in Morocco, finishing second in their group behind Morocco.
The Panthers needed only a draw to secure qualification but ensured their place with a decisive second-half penalty from Guelor Kanga.
Gabon entered the match without key attacking players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Bouanga, yet dominated the first half with their 4-5-1 setup.
Guelor Kanga partnered Clench Loufilou in midfield, creating multiple problems for the Central African defense.
Within seconds of kickoff, Rody Effaghe tested the Central African goalkeeper after a precise pass from David Sambissa.
The Central African Republic responded in the 6th minute when Karl Namnganda made a promising move, only for Vénuste Baboula to be flagged offside.
Gabon continued to push, with Jim Allevinah narrowly missing the target in the 8th minute, followed by Sambissa’s blocked shot in the 14th minute.
Effaghe came close to scoring with a powerful header in the 38th minute, but the first half ended goalless despite Gabon’s clear dominance.
The Central African Republic started the second half with renewed vigor. In the 49th minute, Isaac Solet fired a powerful shot from outside the box, which was skillfully saved by Gabon’s goalkeeper.
Moments later, Namnganda’s header was also denied, keeping the match level.
The Panthers regained momentum as the half progressed.
Medwin Biteghé’s long-range attempt in the 68th minute signaled Gabon’s resurgence, although it failed to find the back of the net.
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute when Gabon was awarded a penalty.
Kanga stepped up and confidently converted, giving the Panthers the lead.
The Central African Republic was unable to mount a comeback, and Gabon held on to secure the 1-0 victory.
Gabon’s victory ensured they finished second in their group with 10 points, behind group leaders Morocco, who maintained a perfect record with 18 points after thrashing Lesotho 7-0.
Lesotho and the Central African Republic finished third and fourth, with four and three points, respectively.
This triumph marks a significant milestone for Gabon as they prepare for the 2025 AFCON, where they will aim to make their mark on the continental stage.
