Gabon and Mozambique meet in a fixture that could prove decisive in Group F, with both sides already nursing narrow defeats and realistically eyeing qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.

Gabon were edged out 1–0 by Cameroon on matchday one, undone by an early Karl Etta Eyong strike that forced them into a reactive performance. Thierry Mouyouma was quick to sense the danger of drifting out of the tournament and made an aggressive tactical call inside the opening half-hour, introducing Mario Lemina and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang earlier than planned. The shift brought more control and threat, but not a breakthrough. Gabon’s clearest opening arrived late on when Royce Openda was slipped through by an incisive André Poko pass, only for Devis Epassy to deny him at close range. Despite the defeat, the second-half response suggested Gabon remain competitive if they can sharpen their attacking execution.

Mozambique’s opening match followed a similar script, as they were beaten 1–0 by holders Ivory Coast in Marrakech. Chiquinho Conde’s side were disciplined and compact for long spells, but struggled to sustain pressure in advanced areas. Goalkeeper Ernan Siluane was heavily involved, producing a series of sharp saves before the break, including denying Franck Kessié from point-blank range and reacting superbly to Yan Diomande’s awkward effort. While the Mambas lacked cutting edge, their structure and resilience kept them alive until the final stages, and another narrow defeat leaves them with little margin for error here.

With Cameroon and Ivory Coast expected to dominate the group, this contest has the feel of a knockout tie in all but name. Both teams know that a second defeat would leave qualification hopes hanging by a thread, while a win could put them firmly in the race for a last-16 berth. Expect a cautious opening, but one increasingly shaped by urgency as the match wears on.