Gabon will be without key midfielder Serge-Junior Martinson Ngouali for their critical upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Morocco and the Central African Republic. The 31-year-old sustained a thigh injury during his club’s last league fixture, which will keep him sidelined for at least six weeks.
The Gabonese Football Federation confirmed the news on Wednesday, delivering a blow to the national team as they prepare for two decisive fixtures.
“The Panthers midfielder, Serge-Junior Martinson Ngouali, suffered a muscle injury to the thigh during the last day of the championship and is out for the final two qualifiers,” the statement read.
Despite the absence of Ngouali, the federation indicated that no replacement will be called up, with the squad already expanded in anticipation of such challenges.
Gabon’s task is daunting as they sit second in Group B with seven points, still needing results to secure their place in Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Panthers must win at least one of their remaining matches while hoping the Central African Republic falters in their campaign.
The clash against Morocco on November 15 will likely test Gabon’s resilience, with the Atlas Lions having already qualified.
A poor result in this fixture could set up a do-or-die showdown against the Central African Republic three days later.
Gabon’s hopes will rest on the leadership of captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and the collective strength of the squad as they fight for qualification.
Ngouali’s absence compounds the pressure on the Panthers, who are relying on their defensive structure and midfield dynamism in these critical encounters.
The defensive midfielder’s contributions have been pivotal in past matches, and his absence leaves a void the team will need to fill tactically.
As the qualifiers reach their climax, Gabon faces the dual challenge of navigating high-stakes matches and adapting to the loss of one of their key players.
Their journey to AFCON 2025 remains uncertain, but with strong performances and favorable outcomes elsewhere, they could yet secure their place in Morocco.
