[EXCLUSIVE] AFCON 2015 Qualifiers, Meyiwa’s Assassination, and SuperSport: Dove Wome Tells All!

Togo Eyes Revenge and Qualification in Crucial Clash Against Guinea

With qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations at stake, Togo approaches its November 15 clash with Guinea in Kégué with both determination and a sense of unfinished business. The Hawks, still stung by a 1–2 loss to the Syli National in the opening round in Morocco, are eager to turn the tables in front of their home crowd.

Midfielder Womé Dové, currently in form at South Africa’s SuperSport United, emphasized the magnitude of the upcoming fixture in an interview with Africa Top Sports.

“I think the match against Guinea is more important, so we need to focus on this match more than the one against Ghana. We’re taking the final turn for the AFCON. We have no more room for error,” he explained.

The attacking midfielder, who has netted four goals in five matches this season, is optimistic about Togo’s chances:

“We have the means to overturn Guinea, because we’re playing at home. I’m confident, seeing the number of chances we had in the first leg and especially the confidence the squad currently has—it’s an asset for us and for the Togolese public.”

Womé credits his resurgence at club level to the trust placed in him by his coach:

“Even on bad days, he always believes in me. So I give credit to the coach who trusts me and encourages me.”

Now a starter after beginning the South African season on the bench, Womé’s growing consistency is a result of his hard work and perseverance. His recent success, however, has been touched by tragedy, following the death of South African goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa:

“I felt the same as the South Africans. Someone you know well, with great potential, who was shot dead—it hurts. It’s like a dream. To this day, I don’t believe it. He remains a great guardian in our hearts.”

Before joining the Togolese national team camp in Lomé, Womé will first feature in SuperSport United’s League Cup semi-final against Orlando Pirates—Meyiwa’s former club.

With Emmanuel Adebayor leading the frontline and the squad in high spirits, Togo knows that only victory can keep their AFCON dream alive.