Gabon U-23 national team manager Ibela Ignambi Saturnin says his side’s clash with Niger on Wednesday at the ongoing 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations is a “do or die” affair.
The Panthers lost their Group B opener to Mali 3-1 and could be knocked out of the tournament if they fail to get a result at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier.
The Nigeriens meanwhile played out a goalless draw with defending champions Egypt and would be looking to have a chance against the Gabonese.
Gabon have the second fastest goal in #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 history against Mali in round 1 ⚡️
They call them Panthers for a reason ???????????? pic.twitter.com/Xe63xiaaoz
— #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 ???? (@CAF_Online) June 28, 2023
“Our upcoming match is a do-or-die situation for us. Having already lost the first match, we must work tirelessly to secure a victory,” Saturnin said.
The other Group B game will see Egypt take on Mali.
