Gabon coach Sebastien Migne said Thursday, September 17, in Libreville that the Panthers face a “complex” and “major challenge” when they take on Morocco in Rabat on September 25 in the opening round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Speaking at a press conference to announce the squad selected for the match, Migne said the team would “have to be well organized and, above all, highly cohesive as a group” when facing the Atlas Lions.
The French coach, who took charge of Gabon in July, said the match would also give the Panthers an opportunity to gain as much experience as possible.
He noted that Morocco have a squad whose players show a high degree of cohesion, meaning his players will have to remain humble and strengthen their collective understanding to face the Atlas Lions.
Migne acknowledged that the Panthers have been going through a difficult period for several months, but said he is determined to breathe new life into the team with the support of his coaching staff and the national technical directorate.
The Gabon coach also stressed the importance of qualifying for the next Africa Cup of Nations, expressing his ambition to lead the Panthers to the continental finals.
Regarding the players’ fitness, Migne said all those called up will be available, with the exception of midfielder Mario Lemina, who will miss the match through injury.
As for striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s absence, Migne stressed that the national team’s “doors remain open” to the player, pointing to his experience and qualities as well as the important role he could play within the team.
Morocco and Gabon are in Group A of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers alongside Niger and Lesotho.
Morocco will host Gabon on Friday, September 25 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat before facing Lesotho on Tuesday, September 29 in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
