Mawouna Amevor: “Playing for Togo Is a Source of Pride”
By BBC Sport Africa
Go Ahead Eagles defender Mawouna Amevor has been called up to the Togo national team for the first time, and the 22-year-old couldn’t hide his emotion upon receiving the invitation.
“When I received the official invitation, I told myself that it was a special day for me,” Amevor said in an interview with his club’s website. “Playing for your home country is a source of pride.”
Born in the Netherlands to a Togolese father, Amevor has long held dual nationality, but this marks his first opportunity to represent the Hawks. The call-up comes ahead of Togo’s crucial double-header against Uganda in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The team is currently bottom of Group E after two losses—against Guinea (2-1) and Ghana (2-3).
“Togo lost their first two matches, so it’s really important to get back on track,” he said. “I hope I can contribute on the pitch so that Togo can get back into the race.”
Although new to the national team setup, Amevor is no stranger to interest from the Togolese FA. Discussions began last summer, initiated through his club manager, Foekey Booy.
“Togolese football has been on the rise for some time, and the organization isn’t bad,” he noted. “I’ve been told that Togo has been following me since I was playing for Dordrecht.”
Despite having never visited the West African country, Amevor is looking forward to connecting with his roots.
“I’m going to discover my country, the culture, the people, and also the players and even the official language. French is still new to me.”
Amevor also expressed admiration for Togo captain Emmanuel Adebayor, a player he has followed from afar.
“I know the captain of the national team from afar. Emmanuel Adebayor plays for Tottenham. Now, playing with Adebayor is a pleasure.”
Before joining up with the Togo squad on Monday, however, Amevor has one last commitment with his club.
“That’s my concern at the moment. Utrecht first and Uganda after.”
Togo will be counting on the young defender’s energy and perspective as they look to revive their campaign for a place at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
