Djene Dakonam illness not serious, says Getafe boss ahead of Togo’s CAN 2027 qualifiers

Getafe manager Jose Bordalas has eased concerns over Togo captain Djene Dakonam after the defender asked to come off during Sunday’s La Liga victory over Malaga.

Dakonam was withdrawn in the 65th minute, with Orel Mangala taking his place, as Getafe eventually secured a 1-0 win through Ivan Azon’s late goal. The Togo captain was already off the pitch when the decisive strike arrived.

His decision to leave the match caused concern among Togo supporters, with the national team preparing for the opening rounds of the CAN 2027 qualifiers. However, Bordalas said the player’s condition was not serious and explained that he had been unwell before kick-off.

“Djene Dakonam did not feel well before the start of the match. I did not say it, but he had a fever and had a bad night,” Bordalas told reporters.

“He is a very honest man who knew that the team needed him.”

The Getafe medical staff gave Dakonam medication in an effort to allow him to continue, but the treatment was not enough for him to complete the game.

“The doctors gave him medication so that he could feel as well as possible, but at a certain point he was really exhausted,” Bordalas said.

“He told us that he could no longer continue and, obviously, we had to replace him.”

The explanation is expected to reassure Togo before their first CAN 2027 qualifying fixture. The Eperviers are due to host Burundi in Lome on Friday 25 September.