The Grand Stade de Marrakech is set to host a compelling encounter as Gabon and Côte d'Ivoire clash in their final Group F match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 today. While the stakes differ significantly for each side, both are expected to bring intensity to the pitch. The match kicks off at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT).
Gabon has already been eliminated from contention, but they aim to conclude their tournament journey on a positive note. The Panthers are determined to deliver a performance worthy of their supporters, showcasing their character and ambition, despite the disappointment of an early exit.
Côte d'Ivoire, the reigning African champions, have different objectives. They need at least a draw to secure progression to the knockout stages and continue the defense of their continental crown. Securing a victory would guarantee them the top spot in the group.
This match marks the first-ever encounter between Gabon and Côte d'Ivoire at the Africa Cup of Nations finals, adding a layer of intrigue to the contest. Historically, the two teams have met 18 times across all competitions. Côte d'Ivoire holds the advantage with 10 wins compared to Gabon's four, with four draws.
Their paths have crossed in AFCON qualifying for the 1972 and 2008 tournaments. In those four games, Gabon failed to register a win, with Côte d'Ivoire securing four victories and one draw, including a dominant 5-0 triumph in Abidjan in October 2006. More recently, they met in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying. Côte d'Ivoire won the first match 1-0 in Korhogo in June 2024, while the return fixture in Franceville ended goalless in September 2025. Côte d'Ivoire qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Gabon advanced to a continental play-off tournament but ultimately failed to qualify.
Gabon's coach emphasized the team's focus and desire to finish strong against the reigning champions. He acknowledged the disappointment of elimination but affirmed the team's readiness to compete and end the tournament on a high note. Côte d'Ivoire's coach, Faé, will be looking to guide his team to the knockout rounds for a third successive tournament. Since 2006, Côte d'Ivoire has only been eliminated at the group stage once in 10 tournament appearances, in 2017.
As the game approaches, Côte d'Ivoire's historical dominance in this fixture makes them slight favorites. However, Gabon will be motivated to play with pride and potentially disrupt the reigning champions' ambitions. Football fans can anticipate a captivating match with both teams striving to assert their dominance.
