Togo Rally to Beat Liberia in Hard-Fought AFCON 2017 Qualifier
Togo came from behind to earn a 2-1 victory over Liberia on Sunday in Lomé, securing a valuable three points in their opening match of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Hawks endured a nervy start at the Kégué Stadium and paid the price late in the first half. Liberia, playing with confidence and composure, opened the scoring in the 43rd minute through James Debor, stunning the home crowd and sending the visitors into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Togo head coach Tom Saintfiet made key adjustments during the interval, and the response from his side was immediate. The equaliser came in the 55th minute when central midfielder Sadate Ouro-Akoriko rose highest to head home a corner, reigniting the Togolese momentum.
With the scores level, Togo began to assert control. Substitutes Atakora Lalawélé and Placca Fessou added attacking spark, and it was the latter who combined effectively with captain Emmanuel Adebayor. The former Arsenal striker calmly slotted past the goalkeeper to complete the comeback and put Togo ahead 2-1.
Despite late pressure from Liberia, Togo held on to claim the win. While it was far from a dominant performance, the result lifts Togo into second place in Group A, behind Tunisia, who thrashed Djibouti 8-1 on Friday.
Coach Saintfiet will take heart from his team’s resilience but will be aware of the work still needed as the qualifiers progress.
Togo Starting XI vs Liberia:
Cédric Mensah – Mamah Gaffa, Serge Akakpo, Amevor, Djene Dakonam – Ouro-Akoriko, Komlan Amewou (Nouwoklo Kossivi) – Mathieu Dossevi, Floyd Ayité (Placca Fessou), Serge Gakpé (Atakora Lalawélé) – Emmanuel Adebayor
