About us

Football Development

Official Documents

TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Know the Coach: Thierry Mouyouma (Gabon)

Published:

Thierry Mouyouma’s appointment as the head coach of Gabon in October 2023 marked the beginning of a fresh chapter for the national team.

The former Gabon international defender, who earned 82 caps during his playing career, has embraced the challenge of restoring pride in the Panthers.

With his rich footballing experience and innovative approach, Mouyouma led Gabon back to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after missing the previous edition.

The upcoming tournament in Morocco will be Mouyouma’s first as head coach, and the 50-year-old will aim to surpass expectations and rekindle Gabon’s competitive edge on the continental stage.

Factfile

  • Name: Thierry Mouyouma
  • Date of Birth: 1975
  • Place of Birth: Franceville, Gabon
  • Age: 50
  • Nationality: Gabonese

Coaching Journey

Thierry Mouyouma transitioned seamlessly from player to coach after an illustrious playing career that included stints at clubs like FC 105 (Gabon), Stade de Reims (France), and Ajax Cape Town (South Africa). As a coach, his most notable achievements came with FC 105, where he won three Gabon Premier League titles between 2012 and 2016.

Mouyouma also gained valuable experience outside Gabon, coaching Burkina Faso’s Rail Club de Kadiogo and Rahimo FC. His time with the Gabon U20 team further honed his ability to nurture young talent. Armed with a CAF A License and a UEFA B License, Mouyouma returned to the national team with a vision of creating a well-organized and tactically flexible side.

Style of Play

Mouyouma favors an attack-minded 4-3-3 formation, which he used in five of Gabon’s six matches during the AFCON qualifiers. His emphasis on balanced yet dynamic football allows the team to exploit its offensive potential while maintaining a solid defensive structure.

Path to Morocco

Gabon finished second in Group B during the qualifiers, securing their spot behind group winners Morocco. Mouyouma’s side collected 10 points, winning three matches and drawing one. Though they suffered two defeats to World Cup semi-finalists Morocco, Gabon showed resilience and creativity throughout their campaign, scoring nine goals.

Experience at the AFCON

While this will be Mouyouma’s first appearance as head coach at the AFCON, he participated as a player in the 2000 edition co-hosted by Ghana and Nigeria. His experience from that tournament, coupled with his deep understanding of African football, could prove invaluable in Morocco.

Did You Know?

Thierry Mouyouma is only the second Gabonese coach to lead the Panthers to the AFCON, following in the footsteps of Alain Da Costa Soares, who achieved the feat in 1996.

Thierry Mouyouma’s return to the AFCON as a coach marks an important milestone in his career and offers Gabon an opportunity to rebuild their reputation. With his tactical acumen and commitment to excellence, Mouyouma aims to lead the Panthers to a memorable campaign in Morocco.