Togo Coach Tchanilé Tchakala Names First Squad for Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers
Togo’s newly appointed head coach, Tchanilé Tchakala, has unveiled his first squad as the team prepares for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Morocco. The list notably includes a mix of local talents from the Togolese domestic league, reflecting the coach’s intent to blend homegrown players with those based abroad.
A total of 33 players have been called up to begin training sessions, which are set to kick off this Tuesday. Among the initial group are goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards representing the nation’s football league. Players currently plying their trade overseas are expected to join the squad later in August as preparations intensify ahead of the crucial qualifiers.
Togo is scheduled to face Guinea in their opening qualifier, with the team travelling to Conakry for the match. This encounter marks the first step in Tchakala’s mission to guide the Sparrowhawks back to the continent’s premier football competition.
The coach’s squad announcement follows a dynamic qualifying draw that sees regional rivals Ghana and Uganda, the winners against Mauritania, gearing up for their upcoming clash.
The Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
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Yacoubou Nouridine
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Djehani N’Guissan
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Atsu Mawugbe
Defenders
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Tchabalandja Raweni
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Batascom Mazabalo
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Dadji Kodjovi
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Martial Issifou
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Donou Kokou
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Ayara Samoudine
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Tawali Magnima
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Richard Area
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Camara Cheik Aziz
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Nassam Sadat
Midfielders
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Rachid Aboubacar
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Bolou Kodjo
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Dogbatse Junior
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Degli Mensah
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Yacoubou Taofik
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Noundja Dambe
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Nouwoklo Kossivi Martin
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Akpovor Innocent Neni
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Lamboni Damigou
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Zakari Gafarou
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Ali Baba
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Adoboe Komlan
Forwards
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Laba Fodoh Kokou
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Kougbegna Didier
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Foliklan Didier
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Mamah Zougou Nazifou
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Fousseni Rafiou
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Kove Paul
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Dahoun Bogonou
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Agbodo Komlan
This squad announcement highlights Tchakala’s strategy to incorporate players familiar with local football dynamics, while still relying on international experience once overseas players join later. The approach aims to foster team cohesion early, allowing the squad to gel before facing tough opponents in the qualifiers.
Togo will be eager to improve upon past performances and secure qualification to the Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that holds significant prestige in African football. With a fresh coaching approach and a blend of talent, the Sparrowhawks hope to soar higher in the continental arena.
