Rabat – Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has warned his teammates against underestimating Gabon ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, describing the Panthers as an opponent that has regularly troubled the Atlas Lions.
Speaking ahead of the Group A opener, Bounou said the Moroccan squad was pleased to reunite for international duty just over two months after its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
“The players arrived in good condition. We really wanted to return to the national team, especially in front of our supporters, and honestly, we are very happy,” Bounou said.
The Al Hilal goalkeeper added that the relatively short period since the World Cup has helped maintain familiarity within the squad.
“The group has already been together, and only around two months have passed since the World Cup, so it hasn’t been long,” he said. “The players are happy to be back and to play for the national team, especially in Rabat.”
Bounou wary of Gabon threat
Bounou reserved particular attention for Friday’s opponents, recalling Morocco’s previous difficult encounters with the Central African side.
“It will be a tough match. As we know, Gabon are not an ordinary opponent. They have always caused us problems, whether in qualifiers or at the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.
Despite that warning, the goalkeeper expressed confidence in Morocco’s preparations.
“I think we are well prepared for this match, and God willing, the result will be a good one,” Bounou added.
Morocco begin their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign against Gabon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on September 25. CAF lists kickoff at 19:00 GMT.
The Atlas Lions are drawn in Group A alongside Gabon, Niger and Lesotho. The top two teams will qualify for the final tournament, which Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will jointly host from June 19 to July 17, 2027.
Gabon arrive in Rabat beginning a new era under head coach Sébastien Migné and without former captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has retired from international football. Denis Bouanga, Mario Lemina and Guélor Kanga are among the experienced players selected for the opening qualifiers.
After facing Gabon, Morocco will travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa, to play Lesotho on September 29.
