Russia 2018-Gabon sends Mozambique packing to book first slot in group stages

Pierre Emerick Aubameyang fired home the winning penalty as Gabon beat Mozambique 4-3 on post match penalties in the return leg match played at the Stade L’amitie Sino Gabonaise in Libreville.

Gabon who had lost the first leg in Maputo by a solitary goal capitalized on home ground advantage and had to thank Malick Evouma who scored the lone goal after four minutes.

With the scoreline remaining a 1-0 after normal and extra time,the ensuing penalties prooved a disaster for the visitors with Gabonese keeper Didier Ovono saving two penalty kicks before Bundesliga star Aubameyang hammered his high into the left corner leaving the crowd including President Ali Bongo Ondima into jubilation.

Aubameyang who missed the first leg after he pulled a muscle did not score during the 120 minutes but set up the only goal for Malick Evouma after he dart down the left side and made a cross for Evouma who calmly fired past Soarito in Mozambique goal.

Mozambique came close to equalizing seconds from the end of regular time when Gildo struck the base of the post.

Gabon will be joined today by the winners between Uganda and Togo,Zambia vs Sudan,DRC vs Burundi,Eq Guinea vs Morocco and Guinea vs Namibia.

Austin Oduor

talking African football