Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has already notched 2 goals at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
It was expected that the Dortmund striker will be among the goal fest at the tournament but it is quite clear to see that he has not yet exploded to his full potential.
Aubameyang’s penalty goal against Burkina Faso and a tap in the opening group game with Guinea Bissau are the only goals credited to the host nation.
Two draws out of two games is not good enough for Gabon especially in matches they should have easily won.
The first match against Guinea Bissau was nearly wrapped in ribbons until Juary Soares’ 90th minute headed goal denied the Panthers all the 3 points.
The second game against Burkina Faso was probably more challenging but when you have the best striker in Europe part of your squad, it is expected that goals would come easy.
Gabon needed a penalty after falling behind via Nakoulma’s 22nd minute strike to earn their 2nd point.
Aubameyang has visibly shown his frustration at the end of both games with boos ringing from the crowd due to the Panthers’ failure to utilize their home ground advantage.
The pressure is on for the former African Footballer of the year to deliver a standout performance in the last game against Cameroon on Sunday, 22nd January 2017 if the host nation are to avoid the embarrassment of a first round exit.
Truth be told Cameroon are on song and their comeback victory against the resilient Guinea-Bissau underlines their resurgency.
Aubameyang must rally his teammates for one last shot knowing that anything less that a victory will see them reliquinsh their hopes of qualifying to the next stage.
