What You Need to Know
Mozambique has made history by securing its first-ever victory in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), defeating Gabon 3-2. The match took place in Morocco, marking a significant milestone for the Mozambican national team, which had previously struggled in the tournament since its inception in 1986. This victory places Mozambique third in their group with three points.
Africa. Mozambique has achieved its first victory in the history of its participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by defeating Gabon 3-2 on Sunday in the second round of Group Six in the current edition of the tournament held in Morocco.
The Mozambican team raised its points total to 3, placing them third, trailing behind Ivory Coast and Cameroon, who are in first and second place, respectively, and are set to meet later today. Gabon remains at the bottom of the group without any points.
This victory is a historic milestone for Mozambique in the AFCON, which began in 1986 in Egypt. The team had previously played 16 matches, suffering 12 defeats, the latest being against Ivory Coast in the first round of the current tournament, along with 4 draws.
The match took place at the “Adrar” Stadium in Agadir, where Faisal Bingal opened the scoring for Mozambique in the 37th minute with a header from a corner taken by Jeni Katamo. Katamo then added the second goal in the 42nd minute from a penalty kick.
Veteran Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reduced the deficit for Gabon in the 45+4 minute, following up on a shot from teammate Didier Ndong from outside the penalty area, which was saved by goalkeeper Hernan Silwan.
In the second half, Diogo Kalila restored a two-goal lead for Mozambique by scoring the third goal in the 52nd minute with a header from a cross delivered by winger Yeti.
Substitute Alex Mukito-Mosonda revived Gabon’s hopes by scoring the second goal in the 76th minute, following up on a shot from Aubameyang that was saved by goalkeeper Silwan. However, the score remained 3-2 in favor of Mozambique until the end of the match.
Mozambique’s journey in the Africa Cup of Nations began in 1986, but the team faced numerous challenges, resulting in 12 losses out of 16 matches prior to this victory. The team had often struggled to compete against stronger African nations, with their previous performances leading to a series of defeats and only four draws.
The 2023 edition of the tournament in Morocco has provided Mozambique with a fresh opportunity to showcase their talent. This historic win against Gabon not only boosts the team’s morale but also marks a turning point in their footballing history, as they aim to build on this success in future competitions.
