Morocco vs Gabon Prediction: This thrilling encounter promises to be an end-to-end affair

The host nation, Morocco, will kick start their AFCON qualifying campaign against Gabon at the Grand Stade d'Agadir on Friday. The Panthers have had a good run against Morocco in recent meetings, and they’ll be geared to stun the host on their own turf. 

FIFA Ranking: 14th 

Last five games: LWDWW

The Atlas Lions are still ranked as the best team in Africa despite their dreadful outing at the AFCON. They’ll be keen to qualify for this edition on their home soil in a group that consists of Gabon, Central African Republic and Lesotho. 

Morocco, who have lost once over their previous thirteen matches are back on their feet. More recently, they scored six goals against a struggling Congo team just after their (2-1) victory over Zambia. 

Morocco are still one of the most consistent teams in Africa and will be poised to rewrite their mistakes here. Morocco are the favourite to win this encounter, but their recent games suggest it won’t be an easy ride. 

FIFA Ranking: 83rd

Last four games: WLDLW

The Panthers head here with a victory over Gambia in their FIFA World Cup qualifying round. Gabon bounced back after their (1-0) defeat against Ivory Coast away from home. 

Gabon, who had a slumping record at the AFCON Championship, will be keen to return to the competition.

The Panthers have invited Aubameyang for their two qualifying games, and the introduction of their star man might have a positive influence on the team. 

Gabon have failed to keep a clean sheet over their last ten matches and must be at their best not to concede here. 

Over their last nine meetings, Morocco have won once, while Gabon have recorded four victories and four games ending in a stalemate. The Atlas Lions are hitting their stride again after their disappointing outing at the AFCON Championship last season. They have won three and drawn once after being eliminated in the round of 16 by South Africa. The Atlas Lions have invited the same players even though a few of them have not been performing for their respective clubs. At the same time, Gabon have named a strong side for this encounter, and we feel the inclusion of Aubameyang might be their best bet for this game.

Morocco are one of the teams in Africa that play beautiful football, and they’ve shown some tactical astuteness in recent games. They are a footballing nation, and we think their passionate home supporters will make the atmosphere unbearable for their guests. We believe this game will produce more than two goals, considering the level of attacking threats on the pitch.

We also believe the hosts will win and score more than once for 1.62.

Both teams will get a goal apiece for 2.63.

Good luck!