Togo beaten by Algeria as Bensebaini settles CAN 2027 qualifier

Togo’s determined resistance was finally broken as Algeria claimed a 1-0 victory in their CAN 2027 Group I qualifier at the Hocine Ait Ahmed stadium in Tizi Ouzou.

The Eperviers frustrated the group leaders for most of the match, with Patrice Neveu’s side defending in a disciplined and well-organised manner. Djene Dakonam and Lilian Brassier formed the centre of a backline that repeatedly held off Algeria’s attacks.

Amine Gouiri and Mohammed Amoura were among those unable to find a way through during the first half and much of the second. Despite Algeria’s sustained pressure and the encouragement of a fervent home crowd, Togo managed to keep the score level.

That resistance ended in the 76th minute, when Algeria captain Ramy Bensebaini scored the only goal of the match. He was picked out by Anis Hadj Moussa before finishing to break the deadlock.

The goal reflected Algeria’s territorial dominance, with the hosts having 73% of possession. It also proved decisive after Togo had made the group leaders work hard and had appeared to unsettle them for long periods.

Togo eventually began to fade physically and mentally, allowing Algeria to secure a narrow victory despite the Eperviers’ strong defensive performance.

The result was frustrating for Togo, although it was consistent with the overall pattern of the match. Neveu’s players now have little time to dwell on the defeat, with an immediate opportunity to respond in the return fixture.

The two sides will meet again on 17 November at the Stade de Kegue in Lome.