Kossi Agassa Sounds Alarm Over Togo’s AFCON Hopes Amid Federation Turmoil
Togo international goalkeeper Kossi Agassa has voiced deep concern over the current state of football in his country, warning that without urgent changes at the national federation level, Togo could once again miss out on qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2017.
Speaking to the BBC, the 36-year-old Stade de Reims shot-stopper did not hold back in criticising the Togolese Football Federation (FTF), which he holds largely responsible for the national team’s struggles.
“The problem with football in Togo is profound, and the federation is largely responsible,” Agassa stated.
“Winning matches isn’t just the players’ responsibility. The national body plays a crucial role. We can’t talk about the team without discussing the organisational issues at the federation.”
Togo’s national side has long been plagued by poor planning and inadequate logistics, particularly during training camps. Players have often had to deal with the absence of basic training equipment and unresolved issues around bonuses—a situation that has repeatedly disrupted preparations and morale.
With less than two months to go before their opening qualifier for the 2017 AFCON against Liberia, the team is still without a head coach—further fuelling Agassa’s frustration.
“If nothing changes, I fear we will miss the 2017 AFCON in Gabon,” he warned. “I would like to play in one last tournament, but things have to improve.”
Agassa, one of Togo’s most experienced players and a veteran of the 2006 World Cup and several AFCON tournaments, is hoping to help his nation return to the continental stage. But with time ticking and institutional instability persisting, Togo’s road to Gabon 2017 appears increasingly uncertain.
