Izak Akakpo urges Togo to give everything in 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Izak Akakpo has urged Togo to maintain their recent positive momentum and give everything against every opponent as they begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Burundi.

Togo will face Burundi on Friday, 25 September, in their opening qualifier, with the Hawks looking to start the campaign with a victory.

Lorient central defender Akakpo said the squad is approaching the match with confidence after what he described as encouraging signs from their last two training camps.

“We know it’s important. It’s an important match for qualification, but we’re in a good frame of mind. I think the last two training camps have been a good sign and we’re going to continue in this vein to try and get a victory against Burundi and Zambia.”

Akakpo believes Togo must build on the progress made during their recent camps as they prepare for the opening fixture.

The defender also acknowledged the challenge facing the Hawks in their qualifying group, with Burundi, Algeria and Zambia all presenting difficult tests.

Rather than focusing on the reputation of their opponents, Akakpo called for Togo to concentrate on their own performance and maintain the same level of commitment throughout the campaign.

“I think we need to focus primarily on ourselves. We have to give our all, regardless of the opponent. Qualification will be difficult, whether against Burundi, Algeria, or Zambia. So we have to give everything and go for the win in the end.”

The message from the Lorient defender is centred on consistency and collective effort as Togo begin their attempt to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.

The Hawks will start against Burundi before facing the other challenges in a group that also includes Algeria and Zambia.

Akakpo believes the team cannot afford to approach any of the matches differently based on the identity of the opposition.

Instead, Togo must maintain their focus on their own performance and fight for maximum results in every game.

The defender’s comments also reflect the confidence within the squad following their recent training camps.

With the first qualifier approaching, Togo are aiming to turn that positive atmosphere into a strong start against Burundi on 25 September.

Akakpo has stressed that the players must remain united and committed throughout the qualification campaign.

For Togo, the opening match provides the first opportunity to put that approach into practice.

The Hawks will be looking to begin their campaign positively, while Akakpo has made it clear that the team must give everything regardless of the opponent if they are to negotiate a difficult qualification group.

The focus now turns to Friday’s meeting with Burundi, with Togo hoping their recent progress can translate into victory and provide an early boost to their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign.