Togo claimed their first triumph of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Sudan at the Kégué Stadium on Tuesday.
The hosts, who had endured a difficult start to the qualifiers, entered the match determined to make amends after their recent setback against Mauritania.
That intent was evident from the opening minutes, as they pressed forward with purpose.
Their efforts were rewarded almost immediately when Fofane struck in the sixth minute, firing Togo into the lead and sending the home crowd into celebration.
Despite the early breakthrough, the contest remained finely balanced. Sudan, who came into the fixture on the back of a defeat to Senegal, sought to regain control and restore parity.
They applied pressure at intervals, particularly in the second half, but struggled to carve out clear opportunities against a disciplined Togolese back line.
Alaixys Romao’s leadership proved vital in guiding his side through tense passages of play, as the Hawks dug deep to protect their slender advantage.
Every Sudanese attack was met with determined defending, while goalkeeper and defenders alike stood firm to deny their opponents any chance of levelling the score.
For Togo, the final whistle marked not just three points but also a significant morale boost. Prior to this victory, they had endured four draws and three defeats in the qualifiers, leaving them winless in the campaign.
This long-awaited result now lifts their total to seven points after eight matches, offering renewed optimism as they look ahead to the remaining fixtures.
Sudan, meanwhile, leave the international window with disappointment. Having suffered a 1-0 loss to Senegal last Friday, the defeat to Togo compounded a difficult spell that has stalled their momentum.
Despite this setback, they remain third in Group B with twelve points, the product of three wins, three draws and two defeats.
The outcome of the match highlights the competitive nature of Group B, where every point is proving crucial in the pursuit of qualification.
For Togo, this narrow win could serve as a turning point, instilling belief within a squad eager to prove they can compete at the highest level.
The challenge ahead remains considerable, but Tuesday’s display offered a glimpse of resilience and determination that may carry them through future contests.
Sudan, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly if they are to maintain their position in the group standings and keep their qualification hopes alive.
The defeats in successive outings underline the fine margins of international competition, where lapses in concentration or missed chances can dramatically alter the trajectory of a campaign.
As the qualifiers progress, both teams will be aware that consistency will be key. Togo’s victory has kept their faint hopes alive, while Sudan must find a way to rediscover their earlier form to stay firmly in contention.
With several matches still to be played, the battle for places in the next round of qualifiers remains wide open.
