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Jacques Ekomié Impresses For Gabon Despite Morocco Defeat
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- Jacques Ekomié Impresses For Gabon Despite Morocco Defeat
(Action Images)
Jacques Ekomié returned to international action on Friday as Gabon began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2–0 defeat away to Morocco. The result was disappointing for the Panthers, but the Wrexham defender provided one of their attacking opportunities and drew positive attention in Gabonese coverage.
Ekomié started on Gabon's left side in Rabat. The visitors resisted Morocco's pressure for much of the opening half-hour before Noussair Mazraoui put the hosts ahead. Soufiane Rahimi added a second in the closing stages, leaving Gabon with no points from their first qualifier.
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Gabon threatened to get back into the contest at times. The Gabonese Press Agency reported that a cross from Ekomié created a headed chance for Jonathan Do Marcolino, one of several second-half opportunities the visitors could not turn into a goal. Ekomié was one of Gabon's few positive performers on the night, offering a concrete example of the attacking contribution Wrexham supporters will recognise from a wing-back.
Ekomié's work down the left as the Panthers initially kept Morocco at bay. The summer signing has been in good form for Phil Parkinson so far this season, but a defeat on international duty will mean Gabon has to respond quickly, with Niger due to visit Franceville on 29 September.
Phil Parkinson and Wrexham will see the fixture offer Ekomié another test at a high international level only weeks after his arrival from Angers SCO . The 23-year-old joined during the summer as Phil Parkinson strengthened his wide options for the Championship season. International football demands more than a club match: Ekomié had to help contain Morocco's attacks while recognising moments to advance and deliver from the left.
Minutes against strong opposition can help a new signing build sharpness and confidence, provided he returns fit when the Championship resumes. The next match against Niger will offer another chance to impress and add three points to the board.
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Wrexham's next league fixture is away to Derby County on 10 October. Ekomié will hope that no injuries or knocks prevent him from starting for Parkinson's side. The international break hasn't come at the best time for Wrexham given the late home win against Southampton could have kicked off their season. However, Friday's result belonged to Morocco, and Ekomié gave Wrexham supporters a contribution worth following during the international break.
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