Gabonese football has been struck by tragedy with the passing of international forward Aaron Boupendza, a player who proudly represented Les Panthères with distinction. Boupendza earned 35 caps for Gabon and was a key part of the squad during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Cameroon.
He most recently signed with Zhejiang FC in China’s Super League, transferring from Rapid Bucharest earlier this year. His football journey took him across continents, playing in France, Portugal, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and China, after beginning his career with CF Mounana in Gabon.
The Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot) announced his death on social media, remembering him as “a great striker who made his mark” during Afcon. The entire Gabonese football community is in mourning.
Gabon’s president-elect Gen Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema also paid tribute, calling Boupendza “a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football.”
Fegafoot extended its deepest condolences to Boupendza’s family, friends, and teammates, closing a chapter on a promising career that left a meaningful mark on the sport and the nation.
Rest in peace, Aaron Boupendza.
