Gabon Government Sacks Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Suspends National Team

Gabon’s National Team Suspended After AFCON Group Stage Exit

The Gabonese government has suspended its national soccer team following their elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations group stage. The decision was made by acting Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula, who announced it on television.

As a result of finishing last in their group and losing three consecutive matches, the coaching staff has been dismissed, and the national team will be suspended until further notice. Additionally, players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have been excluded from the squad.

Gabon’s coach, Thierry Mouyouma, had previously led the team to two losses in their opening group stage matches against Cameroon and Mozambique. In their final match, they were leading 2-0 against the defending champions before conceding three goals and losing to a second-string Ivorian lineup.

Aubameyang, who was not available for the match due to a thigh injury, had responded on social media, stating that he believed the team’s problems went beyond individual issues. Ecuele Manga, a 37-year-old veteran defender, may have also played his last game for Gabon in their defeat by Mozambique.

The suspension of the national team is rare in Africa, as FIFA has taken steps to prevent government interference in football associations.

Source: Al Jazeera