Imagine this: a player scores four goals in a crucial match, only to be sent off just minutes later. This is exactly what happened to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in Gabon's thrilling 4-3 victory over The Gambia. This dramatic turn of events has left fans on the edge of their seats as Gabon fights for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. But here's where it gets controversial... Did Aubameyang's celebration and subsequent dismissal cost his team more than just his presence on the field? Let's dive in.
Gabon's victory was nothing short of spectacular. Aubameyang, the former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea striker, scored all four of Gabon's goals. His performance was a masterclass in finishing, but it was his actions off the ball that stole the show. After scoring his fourth goal, Aubameyang kicked and broke a corner flag in celebration. This reckless act earned him a yellow card, but it was his needless shove on Gambian defender Alagie Saine just five minutes later that saw him receive a red card and get sent off. This means Aubameyang will miss Gabon's final group match against Burundi, a game that could very well decide their World Cup fate.
Gabon's win keeps them in the hunt for the World Cup, but they still trail Group F leaders Ivory Coast by a point. The Ivorians made light work of Seychelles, thumping them 7-0 in a dominant display. Only the group winners are guaranteed a spot in the 2026 finals, but the second-placed team still has a chance to qualify through African and intercontinental play-offs. And this is the part most people miss... Gabon's goal difference is significantly worse than Ivory Coast's, so they not only need to win their final match but also hope that Ivory Coast stumbles against Kenya.
The match in Nairobi was a rollercoaster. Gabon took the lead twice in the first half, only to be pegged back by The Gambia each time. Yankuba Minteh and Adama Sidibeh scored for The Gambia, with Sidibeh's header giving them a 2-1 lead at halftime. Aubameyang's hat-trick goal in the 62nd minute levelled the score, and his stunning strike in the 78th minute put Gabon ahead. But his dismissal five minutes later left Gabon to hold on for the win, which they did, securing a crucial three points.
Meanwhile, in Group B, Senegal and DR Congo are set for a thrilling finale. Senegal's 5-0 drubbing of South Sudan, courtesy of a brace from Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr, keeps them atop the group. Sarr's goals, along with strikes from Sadio Mane, Nicolas Jackson, and Cherif Ndiaye, ensured Senegal's dominance. DR Congo, meanwhile, secured a 1-0 victory over Togo thanks to Cedric Bakambu's early goal. This sets up a fascinating final day of group play, with Senegal hosting Mauritania and DR Congo facing Sudan. But what do you think? Will Senegal hold on to their lead, or will DR Congo stage a comeback? And how will Aubameyang's absence affect Gabon's chances? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
