Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will once again spearhead Gabon’s ambitions at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after head coach Thierry Mouyouma unveiled a refreshed and competitive 28-man squad for the tournament in Morocco.
Drawn into a demanding Group F alongside Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique, the Panthers will open their campaign on 24 December in Agadir.
Aubameyang, 36, returns to the continental stage following an impressive run of form with Olympique Marseille, where he has contributed eight goals and nine assists this season.
His presence—expected but still uplifting—signals Gabon’s intent after missing the 2023 edition.
Mouyouma has maintained the backbone of his experienced squad, with key figures such as Denis Bouanga (LAFC), defensive leader Bruno Ecuele Manga, midfield engine Mario Lemina, and full-back Jacques Ekomié all included.
However, the list also features significant surprises and important comebacks.
Malick Evouna, absent from international duty since 2019, earns a dramatic return after strong domestic performances with Mangasport.
The 32-year-old re-emerges as a potential impact substitute.
Young winger Royce Openda, who made his debut last month, also retains his place.
The 23-year-old Bordeaux attacker is widely regarded as one of Gabon’s brightest emerging talents—keeping him ahead of Yannis Mbemba in a decision that has sparked fan debate.
Injury returnees Jim Allevinah and Shavy Babicka also make the cut, strengthening the offensive options.
Defensively, Mouyouma once again leans on experience as Gabon brace for stern tests against African heavyweights in the group phase.
The Panthers face Cameroon (24 Dec), Mozambique (28 Dec) and defending champions Côte d’Ivoire (31 Dec)—all in Agadir.
Gabon have not progressed beyond the quarter-finals since 2012, but Mouyouma insists the final squad reflects a clear ambition to compete with confidence and continuity, powered by a blend of veterans, returning stars and youthful dynamism.
Gabon’s Final 28-Man Squad for AFCON 2025
Goalkeepers
Mbaba Loyce Marius
Ngoubi Demba Anse
Bekale Junior
Defenders
Oyono Antony
Oyono Jérémy
Obiang Johann
Ekomie Jacques
Appindangoye A.
Ecuele Manga Bruno
Moucketou Alex
Kila Onfia Mick
Do Marcolino Jonathan
Mboula Uriel-Michel
Midfielders
Mario Lemina
Nze Samake
Kanga Guelor
Bocoum Eric
Poko B. André
Loufilou Ruben
Ndong Ibrahim
Forwards
Shavy Babicka
Avelrant Teddy
Denis Bouanga
Essang-Matou Edlin
Malick Evouna
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Royce Openda
Jim Allevinah
