Togo face late fitness uncertainty over Faad Sana and Loic Bessile for Burundi opener

Togo could be without Faad Sana and Loic Bessile for their opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying match against Burundi on Thursday.

The pair are still waiting for their administrative situations to be resolved ahead of the Group? no grouping not stated match, which is scheduled for 16:00 GMT at Stade de Kegue.

Togo manager Patrice Neveu confirmed the issue at his pre-match news conference, but said he remained confident it would be settled before kick-off.

Neveu declined to provide further details about the two cases, saying he did not want to give Burundi additional information before the match. However, he expressed hope that he would be able to select both players.

Loic Bessile has already represented Togo at international level, while Faad Sana is eligible through his mother, who is Togolese.

“I still have two players who have not yet been completely cleared to play tomorrow,” Neveu said.

“But I am fairly confident that the situation will be resolved, particularly for Loic Bessile, who has already worn the national team shirt, and because Faad Sana’s mother is Togolese.”

A final decision on the players’ availability is expected before the match.

Togo will begin their qualifying campaign at home and hope to have their full squad available as they look to make a positive start against Burundi.