Gabon's national football team has been suspended indefinitely following a string of disappointing performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, culminating in their elimination from the tournament. Acting Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula announced the drastic measures on national television Wednesday, citing the Panthers' "disgraceful performance" as the primary reason for the government's intervention.
The suspension includes the immediate dismissal of the entire coaching staff and the exclusion of veteran players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from the squad. Gabon finished last in their group, suffering three consecutive defeats. Their campaign opened with a lackluster 1-0 loss to Mozambique, followed by a 2-1 defeat against Ghana, and concluded with a heavy 3-0 loss to Morocco, the host nation. Aubameyang, the team's captain and star forward, failed to score in any of the matches, a stark contrast to his previous performances in international competitions.
"The government cannot stand idly by while our national team fails to live up to expectations," Mamboula stated. "We are taking decisive action to rebuild and restore pride in Gabonese football."
This is not the first time Gabon has faced challenges in AFCON. Historically, the Panthers have struggled to make a significant impact on the continental stage. Their best performance came in 1996 when they reached the quarter-finals. However, recent years have seen a decline in their competitiveness, leading to increased scrutiny and pressure from fans and officials alike.
The decision to suspend the national team has sparked mixed reactions within Gabon. Some supporters believe it is a necessary step to address the underlying issues plaguing the team, while others criticize the government for overreacting and punishing the players. Critics argue that systemic problems, such as inadequate funding and poor infrastructure, contribute to the team's struggles.
The suspension's duration remains uncertain, and the government has yet to announce plans for selecting a new coach or rebuilding the squad. The future of Gabonese football hangs in the balance as the nation grapples with the fallout from their AFCON debacle. It is unclear when Gabon will return to international competition.
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