From First….to Out

January 22nd, 2010 | by: Matt | Comments(1)

Zambia 2 Gabon 1

Gabon went out of the 2010 African Cup of Nations on Thursday when they fell 2-1 to Zambia. Coupled with Cameroon’s draw with Tunisia, this left a three way tie at the top of the group, with Gabon being left out, despite their stellar start to the group.

With all three (Zambia, Gabon, Cameroon) ending on four points, and tied in the head to head comparison, the Azingo Nationale were left out due to having scored less goals than the other two. A disappointing end, for sure, but the Panthers can certainly take heart in their performance this tournament. Their opening round victory over Cameroon is one that will be remembered for a long time in Libreville, and if it were not from some horrific Zambian goalkeeping in their match vs Cameroon, surely it would be Cousin & co preparing to take on defending champs Egypt rather than the Indomitable Lions. Scant consolation, but a worthy performance nonetheless.

Focus can now turn to the 2012 tournament, where Gabon will play host, along with Equatorial Guinea, in what surely will be a massive boost for both countries. Until then, lets enjoy the quarterfinals.

Gabon Offside Quarterfinal Picks:

Angola v Ghana……….Angola, have to think the home side can advance one more round.

Algeria v Cote D’Ivoire………Cote D’Ivoire, haven’t seen anything from Algeria this tournament, very disappointing.

Egypt v Cameroon……….Egypt, wow what a match!

Nigeria v Zambia……….Zambia, the Chipolopolo spring another shock on a tournament full of them.