The 36-year-old striker breaks a new world record with a stunning four-goal show in Nairobi. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang four-goal world record against Gambia Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reminded the world of his brilliance as he fired Gabon to victory. The veteran striker scored four times in a thrilling 4–3 win over The Gambia in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier played at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi. It was a night filled with excitement, goals, drama, and a touch of football magic. The 36-year-old captain rolled back the years with a display that proved his class and experience still shine bright.
His performance not only gave Gabon all three points but also saw him set a new world record as the oldest player to score four goals in a single World Cup qualifying match. Fast and Fearless Start. The game kicked off under clear skies and perfect playing conditions in Nairobi. Fans filled the stands with flags, chants, and endless energy, ready for a football spectacle. The Gambia started strongly, putting early pressure on Gabon’s defence with quick passes and sharp attacks.But it was Gabon’s leader, Aubameyang, who broke the deadlock in the 20th minute. Denis Bouanga played a perfect through ball, and the former Arsenal striker finished calmly past Gambia’s goalkeeper Gaye Baboucarr.
The fans erupted, sensing they were witnessing something special. Only three minutes later, The Gambia struck back. Young star Yankuba Minteh showed his talent with a brilliant solo goal. He controlled a long pass from Gaye, ran past two defenders, and fired home the equaliser. The tempo of the game stayed high. Both teams attacked with speed and purpose, refusing to sit back. Every minute brought a new chance, keeping supporters on the edge of their seats. Aubameyang at His BestAs halftime approached, Aubameyang once again showed why he remains one of Africa’s best-ever forwards.
In the 43rd minute, he latched onto a long ball from his goalkeeper, controlled it with class, and slotted it home for 2–1. His timing and finishing were flawless. Bouanga almost extended Gabon’s lead before halftime with a curling free-kick, but Gaye made a fine save. However, just before the break, The Gambia equalised again through Adama Sidibeh. The forward reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box and smashed it in, making it 2–2 at the interval. The first half ended with both sides level, but the crowd could feel there was more drama to come. Aubameyang walked off smiling, already on a brace, his eyes full of focus and hunger.
Second Half Drama
The second half began at the same high tempo as the first. Just two minutes in, Sidibeh struck again, giving The Gambia a 3–2 lead. Gabon suddenly looked in trouble, but their captain had other ideas. In the 62nd minute, Aubameyang completed his hat-trick with a moment of brilliance. Kanga Kuku slid a neat pass behind the defence, and Aubameyang lifted the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper. The crowd roared as the ball hit the net it was 3–3, and the veteran had written another chapter in his incredible story. But Aubameyang was not finished yet. In the 78th minute, substitute Essang Matouti made an instant impact.
He delivered a precise cross that Aubameyang guided into the net with his left foot, giving Gabon a 4–3 lead. The stadium exploded with cheers and chants of his name. In celebration, the striker ran to the corner flag and accidentally broke the post. The referee booked him for the wild celebration. Minutes later, Aubameyang received a second yellow card for a late tackle and was sent off. It was a dramatic twist, but the damage had already been done — Gabon had their hero and their win. A Record for the AgesAubameyang’s four-goal haul was more than just a personal triumph.
It set a new world record he became the oldest player to score four goals in a World Cup qualifying match. It was a moment that placed him among football’s legends once again. The 2015 African Footballer of the Year proved that age is just a number when talent meets determination. His performance echoed his best years at Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal, reminding fans of his speed, precision, and killer instinct in front of goal. Gabon Rise, Gambia Fall Short With this victory, Gabon climbed to second place in Group F with 22 points. The result boosted their hopes of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Gambia, despite their spirited display, remained third with 10 points.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars sit just above them with 12.The loss was tough on The Gambia, who played with passion and belief throughout. Sidibeh and Minteh gave their all, but they could not stop Aubameyang’s historic night. Enduring BrillianceAs the final whistle blew, fans inside Kasarani stood to applaud a true football icon. Aubameyang walked off the field with a smile and a wave, knowing he had delivered one of the greatest performances of his career.
His goals, energy, and leadership inspired a nation and reignited their World Cup dream. Even at 36, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang continues to defy expectations. His name, once again, will be written in golden letters in the history of African football.
