Historic Breakthrough: Mozambique Claims First-Ever Africa Cup of Nations Win with Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Gabon at AFCON 2025

Agadir, Morocco – December 28, 2025 – In a pulsating Group F encounter at the Stade Adrar, Mozambique etched their name into Africa Cup of Nations history by securing their maiden victory in the tournament, defeating Gabon 3-2 in a five-goal thriller. The Mambas, long-time underdogs in African football, ended a 39-year drought dating back to their debut in 1986, overcoming a star-studded Gabon side featuring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

This historic AFCON 2025 win marks the 17th finals match for Mozambique, who had previously endured 12 defeats and 4 draws without a single triumph. Goals from Faisal Bangal, Geny Catamo (penalty), and Diogo Calila propelled the southern African nation to three vital points, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive in the prestigious TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

The match exploded into life late in the first half. Faisal Bangal opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a powerful header from a Geny Catamo corner, sending the Mozambique faithful into raptures. Just four minutes later, veteran winger Domingues (Elias Pelembe) was fouled in the box, allowing Catamo to coolly slot home from the penalty spot for a 2-0 lead.

Gabon pulled one back in first-half stoppage time through Aubameyang, who pounced on a rebound to notch his goal at a fourth different AFCON tournament. However, Mozambique restored their two-goal cushion early in the second half when right-back Diogo Calila rose highest to head in a cross, making it 3-1.

Substitute Alex Moucketou-Moussounda gave Gabon late hope with a 77th-minute tap-in from a corner, setting up a frantic finale. But goalkeeper Ernan Siluane’s heroics and resolute defending ensured the Mambas held on for their landmark first-ever AFCON victory.

“This win is for the people of Mozambique,” said head coach Chiquinho Conde post-match. “We’ve waited decades for this moment, and it shows that perseverance pays off in African football.”

The result leaves Group F wide open ahead of the final matches on December 31. Mozambique sit on three points, level with leaders Cameroon and defending champions Ivory Coast (who drew later that day). Gabon, with zero points after two defeats, face an uphill battle against Ivory Coast.

At Abbey Natty Soccer Scouting (ABNASS), we celebrate stories of triumph against the odds like Mozambique’s breakthrough. This AFCON 2025 upset reminds us why we scout and develop young talents across Africa and beyond – dreams do come true with hard work, team spirit, and belief. Just as the Mambas have inspired a nation, emerging soccer talents in Canada, Ontario, and worldwide can draw motivation from such historic moments.

Follow ABNASS for more Africa Cup of Nations 2025 updates, youth soccer scouting tips, and pathways to professional football. Whether you’re an aspiring player seeking CPL opportunities or a scout tracking African stars, we’re here to connect talents to the global stage.

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