December 28, (THEWILL) — Mozambique claimed their first-ever victory at an Africa Cup of Nations finals, defeating Gabon 3-2 in a thrilling Group F encounter at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir. Manager Chiquinho Conde made history with the Mambas, who had previously failed to win in 15 attempts at the tournament.
The match remained scoreless for half an hour before Geny Catamo delivered a set-piece cross that Faisal Bangal headed home. Moments later, Bruno Ecuele Manga fouled Domingues inside the area, allowing Catamo to convert from the penalty spot and double the lead. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled one back for Gabon with the final kick of the first half.
Mozambique restored their two-goal cushion early in the second period when Witi found right-back Diogo Calila, who had advanced into the box and sent a downward header past goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba. Alex Moucketou-Moussounda made the finish tense by scoring from a rebound 14 minutes from time, after Hernani Siluane had initially saved.
The Mozambique defence held firm despite late pressure to seal a landmark result at the 16th time of asking. The victory significantly boosts their qualification prospects in Group F.
Gabon now sit at the foot of the group standings having suffered defeat in both of their opening fixtures. Their hopes of progressing from the group stage have been dealt a severe blow.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
