Togo vs Guinea AFCON Qualifier to Be Played on Neutral Ground Due to Ebola Concerns
The first leg of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers between Togo and Guinea is set to take place in Dakar, Senegal, amid growing concerns over the Ebola outbreak in West Africa.
Originally scheduled to be played in Conakry, Guinea, the match has been relocated to the Léopold Senghor Stadium in Dakar as Guinea battles a severe Ebola epidemic. Since the outbreak began, Guinea has reported 1,975 cases and over 300 deaths, prompting the government to declare a state of health emergency. This declaration involves strict restrictions on movement and large gatherings, making it unsafe to host international sporting events in the country at this time.
Given the health risks, the Guinean football federation has proposed moving the match to Senegal, which is home to a large Guinean community — estimated at over two million people, many engaged in trade and commerce. The fixture is likely to be held on either Saturday, September 6, or Sunday, September 7, just days after Senegal’s own AFCON qualifier against Egypt on September 5.
While the arrangement is still being formalised, Senegalese authorities have expressed cautious support. Dr. Eva Marie Coll Seck, Senegal’s Minister of Health, stated that the government is willing to allow the match provided strict health protocols are enforced to ensure no suspected Ebola cases are present among either team’s delegation. So far, no confirmed cases of Ebola have been recorded in Senegal, offering some reassurance to all parties involved.
The Guinean authorities have reportedly conducted health screenings in Morocco to minimize risks, underscoring their commitment to safely participate in the qualifiers while protecting public health.
For Togo, also known as the Hawks or Sparrowhawks, playing at a neutral venue may reduce travel risks and allow the team to focus on securing a positive result in this crucial AFCON qualifier.
The relocation highlights the ongoing impact of the Ebola outbreak on football and other sporting events in West Africa, where health concerns are taking precedence over regular scheduling.
As the situation develops, both football federations and local authorities remain in close communication to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans while preserving the integrity of the AFCON qualification process.
