Mozambique claimed a landmark victory at the Africa Cup of Nations as the Mambas edged past Gabon 3-2 in a thrilling Group F encounter at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir, handing head coach Chiquinho Conde his place in the nation’s history books.
The victory marked Mozambique’s first ever win at AFCON finals, coming on their 16th attempt, and delivered a major boost to their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.
The contest sparked into life late in the first half after a cautious opening. Mozambique broke the deadlock through a well-rehearsed set piece, as Geny Catamo’s delivery was met by Faisal Bangal, who nodded home from close range.
Moments later, the underdogs doubled their lead when Domingues was hauled down inside the box by Bruno Ecuele Manga. Catamo stepped up confidently from the spot to make it 2-0.
Mozambique almost put the game beyond Gabon before the interval when Witi rattled the crossbar, but instead of extending their advantage, the Mambas were punished at the other end. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck with the final kick of the first half to reduce the deficit and keep Gabon alive.
The goals continued immediately after the restart. Mozambique restored their two goal cushion when Witi broke in behind the defence and delivered a precise ball for right back Diogo Calila, who rose unmarked to head home his first international goal.
Gabon refused to go quietly and set up a tense finale 14 minutes from time. Goalkeeper Hernani Siluane produced a superb save, but his effort was in vain as Alex Moucketou Moussounda reacted quickest to convert the rebound and make it 3-2.
The closing stages were filled with nerves as Mozambique defended desperately to protect their lead, but this time, history was on their side. At long last, the Mambas held on to register a maiden AFCON victory.
The result significantly boosts Mozambique’s qualification hopes, while Gabon now sit bottom of Group F after losing both of their opening matches.
