Reigning African champions Côte d’Ivoire will be out to underline their authority when they face already eliminated Gabon in their final Group F match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
While the Elephants have their sights firmly set on sealing top spot and carrying momentum into the knockout phase, Gabon approach the contest with pride and character as their main motivation.
For Gabon, the match represents a final opportunity to leave a positive impression after a disappointing group campaign. Head coach Thierry Mouyouma insists his side will not be going through the motions despite elimination, stressing that facing the defending champions is a chance to show intensity and competitive spirit.
Captain Johann Obiang echoed the sentiment, saying the Panthers want to finish the tournament properly and fight for a win, underlining the work the group has been building over recent years.
Côte d’Ivoire, however, are taking nothing for granted. Head coach Emerse Faé has made it clear there will be no calculations, even with qualification already secured.
The champions intend to approach the match with the same hunger that carried them to continental glory, aware that every opponent raises their level against them. Defender Oumar Diakité expects a committed Gabon side and has called for full focus from the first whistle.
History favours the Ivorians, who have won six of the 11 meetings between the sides, but with Gabon determined to restore pride and Côte d’Ivoire eager to send a statement, the Marrakech encounter promises a competitive edge despite the contrasting circumstances.
Elsewhere in Group F, Cameroon and Mozambique meet in Agadir with both sides already assured of a place in the Round of 16. Cameroon are chasing top spot and continued momentum under David Pagou, while Mozambique, buoyed by their historic first-ever AFCON win and maiden qualification to the knockouts, are aiming to add another chapter to their fairytale campaign.
In Group E, Algeria face eliminated Equatorial Guinea in Rabat looking to maintain their perfect group-stage run and confirm their status as title contenders. While Les Fennecs balance momentum and squad management, Equatorial Guinea are playing for dignity, hoping to end their tournament on a positive note against one of the competition’s heavyweights.
