Gabon vs Côte d’Ivoire prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 31, 2025
One of the fixtures in the third round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage will take place on Wednesday at the Stade de Marrakech in Marrakech, where Gabon will take on the reigning champions, Côte d’Ivoire. Let's analyze the best bet for this clash, factoring in both teams' motivations.
Match preview
Gabon have unexpectedly lost all chances of advancing from the group after just two rounds. The team suffered a defeat to Cameroon and then sensationally fell to Mozambique, despite being tipped as genuine contenders for second place before the tournament began.
Head coach Thierry Mouyouma was extremely dissatisfied with his squad's performance and is planning changes, including a possible replacement of captain Bruno Ecuele Manga. Despite having no tournament motivation left, Aubameyang is still expected to feature—likely to give a fitting finale to what could be his last Africa Cup of Nations.
The defending champions march confidently through the competition, unbeaten for over a year, and remain firm favorites. After beating Mozambique and drawing with Cameroon, the "Elephants" are in fine form and play a structured, mature brand of football.
Coach Faé boasts a deep squad and plenty of attacking options. Amad Diallo could once again be the key man—he has scored in both group stage matches so far. Meanwhile, Côte d’Ivoire’s defense has been nearly flawless: just one goal conceded all tournament and very few shots allowed on their own goal.
Probable lineups
- Gabon: Mbaba, Appindangoye, Moussounda, Ekomie, Oyono, Biyogo-Poko, Lemina, Denis, Ibrahima Ndong, Babicka, Aubameyang
- Côte d’Ivoire: Fofana, Kossounou, N'Dicka, Doué, Konan, Sangaré, Seri, Kessié, Diallo, Diomandé, Zaha
Match facts and head-to-head
- Côte d’Ivoire are unbeaten in official matches for over a year.
- Gabon have conceded 11 goals in their last five games.
- In the last five meetings between these teams, Côte d’Ivoire have won three times.
Prediction
Despite Gabon's elimination, this match is unlikely to be a mere formality. Aubameyang and his teammates will aim to bow out with pride, but Côte d’Ivoire’s quality and consistency are on another level. The "Elephants" still have plenty to play for, so expect maximum focus. Côte d’Ivoire are highly likely to clinch victory and continue their title defense.
