Gabon will face Ghana in the second Group C game at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations without head coach Patrice Neveu, who tested positive for COVID-19.
The Frenchman is currently isolated and will be away from the team for about 10 days.
Meanwhile, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina who missed the game against Comoros have tested negative and are available to face the Black Stars.
Assistant coach Anicet Yala, returning to the dugout after missing the first match, will be in charge of the team.
He confirmed the absence of the head coach in an interview.
“We have registered the return of Mario and Aubameyang, but unfortunately some players have returned into the red zone — (right-back) Lloyd Palun and sadly, sadly, (central defender) Sidney Obissa,” he told www.goal.com.
“The coach, Patrice, is also not here because he tested positive, and as per Caf recommendations, he’s in isolation.”
Yala also confirmed that the staff is willing to change a winning team ahead of the match against Ghana…and bring Aubameyang back into the fold.
“Naturally, when you have a player of the value of Aubameyang who returns, things have to change around upfront,” he added.
The Panthers will be seeking qualification to the knockouts stages of the tournament on Friday, 14 January 2022, as they take on the Black Stars.
Gabon saw off debutants Comoros in their opening Group C fixture, with Aaron Boupendza netting the game’s only goal in the 16th minute.
On the other hand, Ghana lost 1-0 to Morocco in the first group game also in Yaoundé and will be hoping for a win to secure their chances in the tournament.