Izak Akakpo driven to give everything for Togo in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Izak Akakpo says he is determined to “give everything for the country and the Togolese shirt” after fulfilling a childhood dream by training with Togo at Stade de Kegue.

The young defender took part in the Eperviers’ first training session in Lome on Monday, returning to a stadium he first visited as a child. Ten years after discovering the ground, Akakpo stepped on to its pitch wearing the Togo shirt.

The moment carried particular significance for the Togo international.

“Honestly, it is a source of pride to be in this stadium, to be at home,” Akakpo said after the session. “I had already come here 10 years ago, when I was little. They told me: ‘I hope that one day you will play on this pitch with your boots on.’ And now it is a childhood dream.”

Akakpo was keen to move quickly from the personal significance of the occasion to Togo’s competitive objectives. The team are preparing to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with matches against Burundi and Zambia among the challenges ahead.

The defender said the squad had developed a positive mindset during its previous two gatherings but stressed the importance of remaining focused on its own performance.

“We know it is important. It is an important match, and qualification is at stake,” he said. “But we are in a good state of mind. I think the two gatherings were a good sign. We will continue this effort so that we can bring back a victory. I think we especially need to concentrate on ourselves. It is about giving our maximum.”

For Akakpo, the identity of the opposition should not affect the level of commitment required from Togo. He urged his team-mates to maintain their intensity regardless of whether they face Burundi, Algeria or Zambia.

“Whatever the opponent, qualification will be difficult,” he said. “Whether it is Burundi, Algeria or Zambia, we must give our maximum and bring back the victory in the end. Uphold our honour, and above all help the fighters on the pitch. Give everything for the country and the Togolese shirt.”

Togo’s squad is expected to be complete on Tuesday when the remaining players arrive.

The fitness situation of captain Djene Dakonam will also be monitored, with the defender currently considered doubtful.