Aubameyang Scores Four, Sees Red as Gabon Beat Gambia 4-3 to Keep World Cup Dream Alive
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored four goals and saw red as Gabon edged The Gambia 4–3 in a wild qualifier that keeps their 2026 World Cup hopes alive.
The veteran striker’s brilliance nearly went undone by frustration, but his performance still pushed the Panthers deeper into contention.
Gabon now sit just one point behind Group F leaders Ivory Coast, who crushed Seychelles 7–0 in their match. Only group winners automatically qualify for the World Cup, meaning every point matters — and Gabon know their fate is still in their hands.
Aubameyang broke the deadlock twice in the first half, but Gambia responded through Yankuba Minteh and Adama Sidibeh to level before the break. In the second half, Sidibeh headed Gambia ahead, only for Aubameyang to haul Gabon back level with a powerful header just past the hour. His fourth strike, a cross-shot in the 78th minute, put Gabon ahead for good.
But the celebrations turned costly. In his jubilation, Aubameyang broke a corner flag and received a yellow. Moments later, after shoving Gambian defender Alagie Saine, he earned a second yellow and was shown red with just minutes to play.
He’ll now miss Gabon’s final qualifier against Burundi. To reach their first-ever World Cup, Gabon must win — and hope Ivory Coast slip up. With everything on the line, Aubameyang’s night will be remembered not just for the goals, but for how close it came to unraveling in the chaos of emotion.
