Why was Gabon's national football team suspended?

The team was suspended by the Gabonese government due to a "disgraceful" performance during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Are Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga playing for Gabon again?

Yes, the government has lifted the ban, making both Aubameyang and Ecuele Manga eligible for selection again.

What's next for the Gabonese football team?

Gabon is preparing for upcoming events, including the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and selecting a new coaching staff.

Home / Sports / Gabon Lifts Football Ban After AFCON Flop

Gabon Lifts Football Ban After AFCON Flop

13 Jan

•

Summary

Gabon's government has lifted the suspension of its national football team.
Key players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga are eligible again.
The ban was imposed following a disappointing performance at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Gabon Lifts Football Ban After AFCON Flop

Gabon's national football team has had its suspension lifted by the government, following a disappointing performance in the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) confirmed that measures against the team, including the exclusion of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and captain Bruno Ecuele Manga, have been rescinded.

The government had previously declared the team's AFCON campaign "disgraceful," leading to the immediate suspension. However, the newly appointed sports minister, Paul Ulrich Kessany, highlighted the urgency of upcoming qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, prompting the reversal.

Gabon finished bottom of their AFCON group with three narrow defeats. FEGAFOOT has also been instructed to select a new coaching staff, indicating a significant shake-up after the team's poor showing. Aubameyang, Gabon's all-time leading scorer, and Ecuele Manga, their most-capped player, are now available for selection.