Togo’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations Hopes Diminish After Narrow Home Defeat to Ghana
Togo’s chances of qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations have taken a serious blow after a hard-fought 3-2 home defeat to Ghana on Wednesday. The Hawks, who had already stumbled on opening day against Guinea, struggled to maintain their early momentum against the Black Stars in a tense Group E clash.
The match got off to a promising start for Togo as Floyd Ayité put the Hawks ahead in the 11th minute. However, Ghana quickly took control, responding through Asamoah Gyan’s equalizer in the 23rd minute. Just ten minutes later, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu put the visitors ahead with a second goal, sending both teams into halftime with Ghana leading 2-1.
After the break, Togo’s star striker Emmanuel Adebayor leveled the score in the 76th minute, raising hopes of at least securing a point on home soil. But Ghana’s Christian Atsu dashed those hopes in the 85th minute, slipping past Togo’s defense to score the decisive third goal.
The win marks a vital recovery for Ghana after a disappointing draw in their opening match, reinforcing their position in the group as they aim for qualification.
Togo, meanwhile, now faces a difficult path to the tournament, with two defeats putting significant pressure on the Hawks’ remaining qualifiers.
