The Mambas, who had previously gone 16 matches without a win on the continental stage, finally broke their drought in a clinical display at the Stade Adrar.
The match burst into life late in the first half when Faizal Bangal opened the scoring in the 37th minute, heading home a superb cross from Geny Catamo. Just five minutes later, Mozambique doubled their lead after Dominguês was fouled in the penalty area by Bruno Ecuele Manga.
Catamo stepped up to coolly convert the penalty, sending the ball into the bottom left corner.
Gabon managed to find a lifeline deep into first-half stoppage time through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.The veteran striker pounced on a rebound after Didier Ndong’s initial effort was parried, cementing his status as one of the oldest goalscorers in the history of the AFCON finals.
The momentum shifted back to Mozambique shortly after the break. In the 52nd minute, Diogo Calila rose highest in the center of the box to meet a cross from Witi, powering a header into the roof of the net to restore the two-goal cushion.
Gabon responded with a series of tactical changes, introducing Alex Moucketou-Moussounda and Royce Openda to bolster their attack.
The pressure from the Panthers eventually paid off in the 86th minute when Moucketou-Moussounda scored from close range following a corner, setting up a frantic finale.
Despite late attempts from Mario Lemina and Jacques Ekomié, Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane remained resolute, producing several crucial saves to protect the lead.
The final whistle confirmed a landmark achievement for Mozambique, ending nearly four decades of waiting for a win at the Africa Cup of Nations.
