Gabon have announced their squad for the African play-offs of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the line.
The 35-year-old Marseille forward will spearhead the Panthers’ attack as they bid to reach their first World Cup finals. Gabon have never previously qualified for football’s biggest tournament.
The four-team play-off tournament in Morocco will determine the final African qualifier for the expanded 48-team World Cup, with Gabon seeking to write a new chapter in their footballing history.
Aubameyang is joined in attack by LA FC’s Denis Bouanga, who has been in impressive form in Major League Soccer, alongside Amiens forward Teddy Averlant and Lyon’s Bryan Meyo.
The midfield features Premier League experience through Mario Lemina, who recently joined Turkish giants Galatasaray, and former Sunderland player Didier Ndong, now at Iranian side Esteghlal. Guelor Kanga and Eric Bocoum add further quality in the middle of the park.
Defensively, veteran Bruno Ecuele Manga has been recalled to the squad despite playing at lower-league level with Paris 13 Atletico in France. Aaron Appindangoye, who plays for Turkish side Sivasspor, brings top-flight experience, whilst Angers’ Jacques Ekomie provides a younger option.
The goalkeeping department includes Paris Saint-Germain’s Lukas Mounguenou alongside domestic-based options Francois Junior Bekale and Mike Kila Onfia.
The winners of the four-team play-off will secure Africa’s final place at the World Cup to be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
