Zim GBC News | Sports Correspondent
LIBREVILLE – The Gabonese government has taken drastic action following the national football team’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), suspending the entire squad indefinitely and banning star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula announced the severe measures on Thursday, citing the “disgraceful performance” of the Gabon Panthers at the tournament in Morocco. The decisions came after a 3-2 defeat to Ivory Coast on December 31, which confirmed the team’s elimination.
“Given the Panthers’ disgraceful performance at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dissolve the coaching staff, suspend the national team until further notice, and exclude players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang,” Minister Mamboula stated.
Gabon finished bottom of Group A after also losing to Cameroon and Mozambique. The team’s collapse was epitomized in the final match, where they surrendered a two-goal lead against the Ivorians.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea forward Aubameyang, who did not play in the final group game due to a thigh injury, responded to the ban.
“I think the team’s problems are much deeper than the individual I am,” the Marseille striker said.
Coach Thierry Mouyouma, who had been in charge for just over two years, was also dismissed as part of the sweeping sanctions.
The government’s intervention highlights the intense pressure and national disappointment surrounding the team’s performance, which fell far short of expectations.
The suspension leaves the future of Gabonese football in immediate uncertainty, with no indication of when the team will be reinstated for international competition.
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