AFCON 2017 Qualifiers: Togo Name Starting XI for Crucial Clash Against Djibouti
Togo’s national team, the Sparrow Hawks, are set to take on Djibouti’s Red Sea Sharks on Friday at 13:00 UTC, in the second matchday of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Head coach Tom Saintfiet has largely kept faith with the squad that secured a 2–1 victory over Liberia in their Group A opener back in June. However, a few key changes have been made to the starting lineup.
With Emmanuel Adebayor absent as he continues to resolve matters regarding his club future, Jonathan Ayité has been given the responsibility of leading the attack. In midfield, experienced anchorman Jacques Alaixys Romao returns to the starting XI, replacing Komlan Amewou, who was not included in the squad for this fixture.
The game, taking place in Djibouti City, is expected to be played in testing conditions with temperatures forecast to approach 40°C. Despite the heat, Togo are confident of securing another three points and maintaining momentum in their qualification campaign.
Togo Starting XI vs Djibouti:
Goalkeeper: Cédric Mensah
Defenders: Gafar Mamah, Serge Akakpo, Mawouna Amevor, Djené Dakonam
Midfielders: Sadat Ouro-Akoriko, Jacques Alaixys Romao
Wingers/Attacking Midfielders: Atakora Lalawélé, Floyd Ayité, Mathieu Dossevi
Forward: Jonathan Ayité
Substitutes:
Djahini N’Guissan, Joseph Douhadji, Henritse Eninful, Placca Fessou, Nouwoklo Koutob, Camal Gbaguidi, Dové Wome
Coach Saintfiet will be hoping for a professional display from his squad, especially given Djibouti’s recent form. The home side suffered a heavy 8–1 defeat against Tunisia in their first match and will be looking to put in a more disciplined performance in front of their supporters.
Togo currently sit joint top of Group A, and a win would temporarily move them clear before Tunisia’s match against Liberia.
