So we commend the Gabonese government for taking this favorable action. This follows on from the national football team’s poor showing at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. As punishment, the government has disbanded the national team. They even dismissed head coach Thierry Mouyouma after Gabon finished bottom of their group, emphasizing the severe fallout from their dismal showing in the tournament.
Gabon, under the direction of former national team defender Mouyouma, had a rocky opening salvo in Group F. The team had a shocking opening two-loss streak against Cameroon and Mozambique, which put them on the back foot to start their campaign. In a hard-fought battle, Gabon came out firing and contesting, going up 2-0 on reigning champions – the Ivorians. In the end, they succumbed to a disappointing 3-2 loss to a largely second string Ivorian side. This unfortunate series of events consolidated Gabon’s fate, knocking them out of the tournament.
Gabon’s acting Sports Minister, Simplice-Desire Mamboula, declared the suspension of the national team while making the address on national television. This decision came on the heels of a long losing streak for the team. He stated that the government’s decision was a direct result of the team’s “disgraceful performance” at AFCON. Mamboula had already announced the dissolution of coaching staff. The coach further announced the immediate withdrawal of players, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga from national selection.
“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,” – Simplice-Desire Mamboula
Even Gabon’s national soccer team has broken up. This change reinstates a tradition that was once routine in African football following underwhelming performances. Historical precedents demonstrate that these moves were usually passed as a short term reaction out of failure on the continental stage.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, cut from the roster, shared why he believes it’s time for a change. He felt that the problems plaguing the club were more systemic than just blaming underperforming players.
“I think the team’s problems are much deeper than the individual I am,” – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
FIFA has been vocal on its opposition to any government interference in football associations, making Gabon’s path forward all the more difficult. The suspension and disbandment of the national team raise questions about the future direction of Gabonese football and its governance.
