Togo football federation summons nine people over alleged match-fixing

The Togolese Football Federation (FTF) has summoned nine people over alleged corruption involving a second-division match between Jeunesse Club d’Agoe-Nyivè (JCA) and Abou Ossé.

The federation’s Disciplinary Commission issued the summons on Friday, 9 October, following suspicions surrounding Abou Ossé’s 1-0 victory in the final round of the regular season in Group A.

JCA had already secured qualification for the promotion play-offs, while Abou Ossé were bottom of the standings and needed a win to boost their chances of avoiding relegation.

The result raised suspicions of possible match-fixing, with allegations that officials from both clubs had reached an agreement before the game.

According to Sport News Africa, representatives of the two clubs met in Kpalimé days before the fixture to discuss a proposed payment to secure Abou Ossé’s victory.

The report alleges that Abou Ossé’s officials offered two million CFA francs, while JCA president Daniel Agbeko demanded nearly four million CFA francs, alongside victory bonuses for JCA players.

Despite the reported disagreement over the amount, Abou Ossé won the match to preserve their second-division status.

JCA coach Haure Tchalim subsequently questioned the outcome, claiming that arrangements had been made to keep Abou Ossé in the division.

“Everything was orchestrated to keep Abou Ossé in the second division,” he was quoted as saying.

Club officials summoned

Tensions reportedly escalated when the promised money was not fully paid, prompting Agbeko to lodge a complaint with the FTF against Abou Ossé.

However, the JCA president later attempted to withdraw the complaint after reportedly realising that he could also face disciplinary action over the alleged arrangement. His attempt was unsuccessful.

Agbeko has been summoned alongside four other JCA representatives: the club’s coach, communications manager and two players, including the goalkeeper.

Three Abou Ossé officials — the president, vice-president and general secretary — have also been called before the disciplinary body.

The commission is expected to examine the allegations and determine whether any disciplinary sanctions are warranted.

The case comes amid wider concerns about integrity in Togolese football, following a separate controversy at the end of last season in the country’s top division, D1 Lonato.

That case resulted in the FTF suspending two officials, while allegations also raised questions about other figures within the federation.

An independent commission established by Togo’s National Assembly has also taken up the matter, with its findings expected to contribute to efforts to address suspected corruption in the country’s football competitions.