Aubameyang hits four goals as Gabon edge Gambia in 7-goal thriller

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang produced a sensational four-goal performance as Gabon edged Gambia 4–3 in a dramatic 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier played at a neutral venue on Friday, 10 October 2025.

The clash, part of Round 9 of the African qualifiers, delivered a pulsating display of attacking football, with both sides trading goals in a seven-goal thriller that kept spectators on edge until the final whistle.

Gabon took an early lead in the 20th minute when Aubameyang converted from Denis Bouanga’s assist, but Yankuba Minteh levelled for Gambia just three minutes later after being teed up by Buba Gaye.

Gabon’s Mario Lemina was influential in midfield, and the Panthers regained the advantage in the 42nd minute as Aubameyang struck again, this time from Ladislas Mbaba’s pass.

Gambia, however, refused to back down. Jankuba Ceesay equalised in added time of the first half, and moments later, Alieu Sidibeh made it 2–2 before the break with a clinical finish assisted by Minteh.

The second half began explosively, with Sidibeh putting Gambia ahead 3–2 in the 47th minute from a Ceesay assist. But Aubameyang, showcasing his enduring class, completed his hat-trick in the 66th minute after combining with Guélor Kanga, levelling the score once more.

The former Arsenal and Barcelona striker then sealed Gabon’s victory in the 78th minute, slotting home his fourth goal of the match following a fine cross from Ebané Matouti.

Despite Gambia’s late pressure, Gabon held firm to claim a vital win that boosts their qualification hopes. Aubameyang’s match-winning display reaffirms his status as one of Africa’s most prolific forwards, while Gambia will rue missed chances and defensive lapses that cost them valuable points.

With this result, Gabon climb further up their qualifying group standings, keeping their World Cup dream alive in one of the most thrilling encounters of the African qualifiers so far.