LIBREVILLE-(MaraviPost)-The Gabonese government has taken drastic measures against the country’s national football team following a disastrous exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament currently taking place in Morocco.
In a statement broadcast on national television, Gabon’s Minister of Sports, Simplice Désiré Mamboula, announced the immediate suspension of the entire national team, popularly known as The Panthers, until further notice.
The decision comes after Gabon finished bottom of Group F, losing all three of their group matches.
As part of the shake up, the government dismissed head coach Thierry Mouyouma and dissolved the entire technical and coaching staff, citing poor performance and lack of discipline within the team setup.
The minister also revealed that senior players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga, who served as team captain, have been barred from future national team duties.
Authorities accused the experienced players of failing to provide leadership during the tournament.
Gabon suffered defeats against Cameroon, Mozambique and Ivory Coast, exiting the competition without a single point.
The poor showing sparked outrage among fans back home, with many calling for accountability and reforms in the country’s football administration.
Government officials described the AFCON campaign as “humiliating” and said the suspension is meant to allow time for reflection and restructuring of national football.
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