Algeria edge past Togo as Ramy Bensebaini header settles tense CAN 2027 qualifier

Algeria needed a late goal from captain Ramy Bensebaini to beat a disciplined Togo side 1-0 in Tizi Ouzou and maintain their unbeaten start to the CAN 2027 qualifying campaign.

The Eperviers frustrated the Group I leaders for more than an hour, defending with organisation and determination under Patrice Neveu. Their resistance was finally broken in the 76th minute, when Bensebaini headed in a cross from Anis Hadj Moussa.

The result was a harsh one for Togo, who had done much to contain Algeria and will now need a strong performance in the return fixture in Lome if they are to respond.

Togo frustrate Algeria

Togo approached the third matchday fixture without hesitation, matching Algeria’s intensity and refusing to allow the hosts a clear route through their defence.

Djene Dakonam and Lilian Brassier formed the foundation of a compact back line that repeatedly disrupted Algeria’s attacking moves. Amine Gouiri and Mohamed Amoura were frequently targeted by their team-mates, but both found it difficult to escape the Togolese defensive structure.

Algeria controlled much of the play, yet their superiority in possession produced few decisive openings. The first half ended goalless, leaving the home crowd increasingly frustrated as Togo continued to hold firm.

The Fennecs returned from the interval with greater urgency and increased the pressure on their opponents. They eventually finished with 73% possession, but Togo’s players continued to protect their goal with considerable discipline.

That resistance ended when Hadj Moussa delivered the ball into a dangerous area and Bensebaini rose to meet it. The Algeria captain’s header gave goalkeeper and defence no chance, putting the hosts ahead with 14 minutes of normal time remaining.

The goal changed the atmosphere and allowed Algeria to play with greater confidence. They controlled the closing stages and protected their advantage until the final whistle, while Togo were left to reflect on a performance that had come close to securing a valuable result.

Return match offers Togo another chance

The defeat represents a setback for Togo, but their display showed they can compete with an Algeria side regarded as superior on paper.

The Eperviers will have the opportunity to seek an immediate response when the teams meet again on 17 November at Stade de Kegue in Lome. Playing in front of their home supporters, they will aim to turn their frustration into motivation, claim revenge and revive their qualifying campaign.

Algeria remain at the top of Group I after another victory and have preserved their unbeaten record. However, their narrow win has underlined the challenge awaiting them in Lome, where Togo will be determined to produce another difficult contest.