After 17 matches at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Mozambique recorded their first-ever victory at the tournament with a well-deserved 3-2 win over Gabon on Sunday.
The Mambas showed intent from the outset and took the lead in the 37th minute when Faizal Bangal headed home from close range into the top-left corner, following a corner delivered by Geny Catamo.
Mozambique doubled their advantage after Bruno Ecuele Manga committed a foul in the penalty area, and Catamo calmly converted the resulting penalty with a left-footed shot into the bottom-left corner.
Gabon pulled one back just before halftime when Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang fired a right-footed effort from the centre of the box into the middle of the goal in the fifth minute of added time.
Early in the second half, Diogo Calila restored Mozambique’s two-goal cushion in the 52nd minute, rising to head home from the centre of the area after a cross from Witi.
Mozambique remained compact and disciplined at the back, absorbing pressure and slowing the tempo whenever possible.
Alex Moussounda reduced the deficit in the 76th minute, but it proved too little too late for the Panthers as Mozambique sealed a famous first victory at the tournament.
The Southern Africans have revived their hopes of progressing to the round of 16. They currently sit third in Group F with three points from two matches, while Ivory Coast and Cameroon are level on three points with a game in hand.
