The Correct Match Schedule
Gabon is in Group F, the "Group of Death," alongside Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Mozambique.
Gabon's Opener: Gabon does not play the host nation, Morocco, in their first match. Morocco is in Group A.
Gabon's Actual First Match: Gabon's first match is against continental giant, Cameroon, on Tuesday, December 24, 2025.
The significance remains the same: Gabon is missing their best player for their most difficult group-stage match.
The Likely Reason for the Absence: Injury
The most credible recent reports suggest Aubameyang's absence is due to a recurring injury he picked up while playing for his club, Olympique Marseille:
Injury: Reports indicate Aubameyang has been struggling with a left thigh injury (likely a strain or muscle relapse) that he sustained just before the tournament's release date.
Previous Incident: He suffered pain in his left thigh during a recent Ligue 1 match against AS Monaco.
Impact: The injury requires intense treatment, and the Gabonese medical staff have deemed him unfit to withstand the required intensity of a highly physical match against Cameroon on December 24th.
This is a precautionary measure, as risking him in the opening game could sideline him for the entire tournament.
The Impact on Gabon's Group of Death Campaign
This news is devastating for Gabon's chances of progressing from Group F, which features two five-time champions:
Match,Date,Challenge Without Aubameyang
vs. Cameroon,Dec 24,"The hardest fixture. Without Aubameyang's pace and finishing, Gabon lacks a reliable threat to break down Cameroon's defense. A loss here puts immense pressure on the remaining games."
vs. Mozambique,Dec 28,"Aubameyang's expected return. They need him for this match, which is their most likely source of three points against the Group F underdogs."
vs. Ivory Coast,Dec 31,A must-win scenario if they lose to Cameroon. Gabon's best hope here is Aubameyang's leadership and big-game experience against the reigning champions.
Gabon must now rely heavily on LAFC's star winger, Denis Bouanga, and the work rate of veteran midfielder Mario Lemina to secure a result against Cameroon and keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
Would you like an update on the current status of Cameroon's star players (like Bryan Mbeumo or André Onana) ahead of this huge Christmas Eve clash?