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
Yacoubou Nouridine
Djehani N’Guissan
Atsu Mawugbe
Defenders
Tchabalandja Raweni
Batascom Mazabalo
Dadji Kodjovi
Martial Issifou
Donou Kokou
Ayara Samoudine
Tawali Magnima
Richard Area
Camara Cheik Aziz
Nassam Sadat
Midfielders
Rachid Aboubacar
Bolou Kodjo
Dogbatse Junior
Degli Mensah
Yacoubou Taofik
Noundja Dambe
Nouwoklo Kossivi Martin
Akpovor Innocent Neni
Lamboni Damigou
Zakari Gafarou
Ali Baba
Adoboe Komlan
Forwards
Laba Fodoh Kokou
Kougbegna Didier
Foliklan Didier
Mamah Zougou Nazifou
Fousseni Rafiou
Kove Paul
Dahoun Bogonou
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.
