Gabon suspend National Team After AFCON Exit

Gabon has taken drastic action following its early exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, suspending the national team after a poor performance in the group stage.

The Panthers lost all three of their matches in Group F in Morocco, finishing bottom after defeats to Cameroon, Mozambique, and a late 3–2 loss to the Ivory Coast.

Gabon’s authorities announced the indefinite suspension of the national team and dissolved the coaching staff led by Thierry Mouyouma. Acting Sports Minister Simplice-Désiré Mamboula described the team’s display as dishonourable and said it did not reflect the country’s values.

In another major decision, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was banned from future national team call-ups. Team captain Bruno Ecuele Manga was also excluded.

Aubameyang responded by saying the team’s problems cannot be blamed on one player, pointing to wider issues within Gabonese football. He had already returned to Marseille early in the tournament because of injury.

For now, Gabon’s national team remains suspended as the situation continues to unfold.