Algeria face depleted squad as Togo test their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 hopes

Algeria host Togo in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier at the Hocine-Ait-Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou on Saturday, 14 November 2026, with both sides separated by one point in Group standings.

The match, which kicks off at 19:00 GMT, is the first of a decisive two-legged contest between the teams. The return fixture will take place in Lome on Tuesday.

Brahim Hemdani’s Algeria lead the group with four points and will be seeking victory on home soil to strengthen their position at the top. The Fennecs are also aiming to recover from their recent draw in Burundi.

However, Hemdani must manage a squad weakened by six injuries. Algeria will instead look to their home support and a favourable record in this fixture as they attempt to take control of the qualification battle.

Togo sit third with three points and arrive in Algeria determined to end their long wait for a place in the Africa Cup of Nations finals. Their last appearance in the tournament’s final stage came in 2013.

Under coach Patrice Neveu, the Eperviers will rely on the defensive leadership of captain Djene Dakonam and the attacking threat of Kevin Denkey.

Togo know they will need discipline and careful management of their energy against an Algeria side regarded as the favourites. Their priority is to produce a strong away performance before returning home to face Algeria in front of their supporters at Stade de Kegue in three days’ time.