Already-eliminated Gabon will play only for pride when they face reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Ivory Coast in their final Group F fixture on Wednesday in Marrakesh.
For the Elephants, however, there is still plenty at stake. Emerse Faé’s side have yet to seal their final standing in the so-called “Group of Death” and head into the contest determined to extend their unbeaten AFCON run under the former midfielder.
Match Preview
Gabon arrived at AFCON 2025 with high expectations but have endured a deeply disappointing campaign, crashing out after back-to-back defeats in the group.
Thierry Mouyouma’s men began with a loss to Cameroon—an outcome some did not foresee given the turmoil surrounding the Indomitable Lions’ preparation—but their fate was sealed by a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Mozambique on Sunday.
That result was particularly damaging as it ended Mozambique’s long AFCON winless streak and ensured Gabon could not progress even as one of the best third-placed teams, with head-to-head records working against them. Falling behind 2-0 and later 3-1, the Panthers showed fight but ultimately lacked the defensive solidity needed to salvage a crucial point.
With Cameroon and Ivory Coast on four points and Mozambique on three, Gabon’s early exit has been mathematically confirmed, turning Wednesday’s clash into a dead rubber for the Panthers.
Ivory Coast, by contrast, remain firmly in control of their destiny. The defending champions are unbeaten in six AFCON matches, a run stretching back to the previous edition, and continue to show the hallmarks of a well-drilled, disciplined side.
After emerging as champions in dramatic fashion at AFCON 2023, Faé has enjoyed nearly two years to mould his team, guiding them through an impressive World Cup qualifying campaign without conceding. Although they were held to a 1-1 draw by Cameroon last time out—ending that defensive perfection—the Elephants are still unbeaten in competitive football for over a year.
Ivory Coast also boast a strong recent record against Gabon, losing just once in their last six competitive meetings. Victory on Wednesday could secure top spot in Group F, underlining their credentials as serious contenders to retain the title.
Recent Form
Gabon AFCON form:
L L
Gabon (all competitions):
D W W L L L
Ivory Coast AFCON form:
W D
Ivory Coast (all competitions):
W W L W W D
Team News
Gabon captain Bruno Ecuele Manga could be dropped after a difficult outing against Mozambique, with Alex Moucketou-Moussounda in line to start alongside Mario Lemina in central defence.
Despite scoring last time out, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was unable to prevent elimination and will be eager to sign off what could be his final AFCON appearance on a positive note. Denis Bouanga, influential during World Cup qualifying, is still searching for his first goal or assist of the tournament.
Ivory Coast have no injury concerns and will name a strong side despite already being assured of qualification. Amad Diallo has been the standout performer so far, scoring both of the Elephants’ goals at the finals, and the Manchester United winger will be aiming to find the net for a third consecutive AFCON match.
Faé also has a wealth of attacking options, including Wilfried Zaha, Evann Guessand, Vakoun Issouf Bayo and Yan Diomande, as he weighs up possible rotation.
Possible Starting Lineups
Gabon:
Mbaba; Onfia, Moucketou-Moussounda, Lemina, Ekomie; Kanga, N’Dong; Babicka, Poko, Bouanga; Aubameyang
Ivory Coast:
Y. Fofana; Doue, Koussounou, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, Sangare, S. Fofana; Diallo, Bayo, Zaha
Prediction
Gabon 0-1 Ivory Coast
Gabon will be keen to restore some pride, but Ivory Coast’s defensive discipline and tournament experience should prove decisive. Having conceded very few clear chances so far, the Elephants are backed to edge a narrow win and potentially finish top of Group F.
