Gabon and Congo rule Group E
Gabon defeated Burkina Faso 1-0 on Saturday in Libreville during the second match day of the 2014 FIFA World Cup second round qualifying to stay atop Group E with four points ahead of Congo, who handed their weekend visitors Niger a lone-goal defeat in Pointe Noire.
Inspired by the return of Saint Etienne’s striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the Panthers went underway in search of an early goal to tame the Stallions, but the guests from west Africa stood firm throughout the first half, carving for themselves most of the goal chances, which they failed to exploit successfully.
Back from the break, Aubemeyang, Cousin and Nguema marshalled Gabon’s attacking line to retake control of the session, pressing the Burkinabe to camp behind on the defensive.
Gabon opened the scoring in the 56th minute through a header from Union Sportive Bitam defender Remi Ebanega from a corner kick executed by his club mate Stephane Nguema.
The home side pressed more for a double but had settle for a lone goal win after all efforts proved futile.
Gabon are now leaders of Group E with four points following their goalless draw against Niger last weekend.
Congo are placed second on the group with four points as well but with one goal conceded in their 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso on June 2.
The Red Devils licked the Mena of Niger 1-0 in Pointe Noire on Saturday, thanks to a late minute strike from Monaco’s midfielder Chris Malonga.
