Mozambique finally ended their long-standing winless streak at the Africa Cup of Nations with an impressive and composed display at the Stade Adrar, overcoming Gabon in a thrilling match.
After years of frustration on the continental stage, the Mambas demonstrated confidence and accuracy, breaking the deadlock in the 37th minute when Faizal Bangal expertly headed in a superb cross from Geny Catamo.
Their momentum was boosted shortly afterwards when Dominguês was fouled in the box by Bruno Ecuele Manga, resulting in a penalty.
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Catamo stepped up and confidently placed the ball into the bottom corner, giving Mozambique a commanding lead. Gabon, however, refused to fade away quietly.
Deep into first-half stoppage time, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reacted swiftly to net a rebound after Didier Ndong’s shot was saved, becoming one of the oldest goal-scorers in AFCON history and keeping his side in the contest.
Any hopes of a Gabon comeback were soon dashed in the second half when Diogo Calila powered a towering header from Witi’s cross in the 52nd minute, restoring Mozambique’s two-goal advantage.
Gabon made several tactical adjustments as Alex Moucketou-Moussounda and Royce Openda were introduced to add attacking spark. Their persistence was rewarded late in the 86th minute, when Moucketou-Moussounda bundled in from close range following a corner to spark dramatic late tension.
Despite mounting pressure in the final moments, Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane stood firm, producing key saves to deny Mario Lemina and Jacques Ekomié.
When the final whistle sounded, it marked a historic milestone — Mozambique’s first AFCON victory in nearly 40 years, a triumph that will live long in the nation’s football history.