Morocco vs Gabon Preview – prediction, team news, lineups | AFCON 2027 qualifiers
The Atlas Lions are on a two-match winning run against the Panthers!
The Morocco national football team are all set to battle it out against the Gabon national football team for their first group stage contest of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. This contest will be an interesting one, taking place at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah.
The Mohamed Ouahbi-led side came up with some strong displays during the FIFA World Cup 2026. They reached the quarterfinals, but were eliminated by Kylian Mbappe’s France. The Morocco national football team might not be very happy with their displays, as they are capable of much more.
Being at home is surely going to give a huge confidence boost to the Atlas Lions. Also, their better squad quality will help them control the tempo of the game. Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence starts here.
The Gabon national football team will be in action for the first time since March 2026. They haven’t been on a top run of form. The Panthers have faced four defeats in their last five matches and will be under pressure for their next one.
Sebastien Migne’s men will be looking to control the game from the start. But it will not be an easy task against a fast and cunning Morocco.
Kick-off:
Catch Every Update, Anytime, Anywhere
- Location: Uyo, Nigeria
- Stadium: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium
- Date: Saturday, September 26
- Kick-off Time: 12:30 AM IST (Friday, Sept 25; 07:00 pm GMT/ 03:00 am ET/ 12:00 pm PT)
- Referee: Abongile Tom
- VAR: In use
Form:
Morocco: W-W-W-W-L
Gabon: L-L-L-L-W
Players to Watch
Ismaël Saibari (Morocco)
Ismaël Saibari delivered top-notch performances for the Morocco national football team during the FIFA World Cup 2026. He will be looking to help his side once again. Saibari can play in the attacking midfield position and can also play as a striker if needed.
With the ball at his feet, he is going to be a constant threat to the opponents.
Denis Bouanga (Gabon)
The 31-year-old is going to be one of the main men in the final third for the Gabon national football team. He continues to perform well for his club, Los Angeles FC, in the MLS. He will now be looking to help his nation stand a chance against the Atlas Lions in the AFCON qualifier.
Match Facts
- Morocco have four wins in their last five matches.
- Gabon only have one win in their last five attempts.
- The Atlas Lions are unbeaten in their last clashes against the Panthers.
Betting Tips & Odds
- Morocco to win
- Ismaël Saibari to score
- Goals over 3.5
Injury and Team News
All of the selected squad members for Morocco and Gabon are all set to be in action.
Head-to-Head
Matches played: 20
Morocco (wins): 10
Gabon (wins): 6
Draws: 4
Predicted Lineups
Morocco predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Bounou (GK); Hakimi, Diop, Aguerd, Salah-Eddine; Bouaddi, El Aynaoui; Diaz, Saibari, Ezzalzouli; Rahimi
Gabon predicted XI (4-3-3)
Bekale (GK); Anthony Oyono, Mboula, Mantsounga, Ndinga; Lemina, Kanga, Ndong; Andami, Mbina, Bouanga
Match Prediction
With superior squad quality and the home advantage, Morocco are going to have a slight edge. Gabon will be looking to put up a fight, but might struggle.
The Atlas Lions are likely to come out on top and secure a win in their upcoming AFCON qualifier.
Prediction: Morocco 3-1 Gabon
Telecast Details
Nigeria: Canal+, Sport 1 Afrique
Gabon: Canal+, Sport 3 Afrique, Gabon 1ère
Morocco: beIN Sports HD 3, beIN SPORTS CONNECT, Arryadia TNT, TOD, SNRT Live
USA: beIN SPORTS en Español, fuboTV, beIN SPORTS C
When and where is Morocco vs Gabon AFCON qualifier?
This clash will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on September 25 (BST).
Where and how to watch AFCON 2027 qualifiers in USA?
Fans can view all the matches live via beIN SPORTS en Español, fuboTV, beIN SPORTS CONNECT.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.