Gabon Dissolves National Football Team and Bans Key Players After AFCON Failure

The Gabonese government has officially dissolved its national football team following a disappointing performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the team lost all three of its group-stage matches, finishing last in Group F. The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Cultural Outreach announced the disbandment, which includes the suspension of the entire national team and the dismissal of the coaching staff. Notably, team captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and veteran player Bruno Ecuellé Manga have been banned from representing Gabon in future competitions. Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula described the team's performance as disgraceful, prompting these drastic measures. Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has called for significant reforms within the national team structure but has also warned of potential repercussions from FIFA due to government interference in football affairs. The Gabonese Football Federation will continue to manage football activities in the country, although the future of the national team remains uncertain.