Togo urged to start fast and exploit the flanks against Burundi

Togo must take control early when it host Burundi in its opening match of the CAN 2027 qualifying campaign, according to coach Jules Koudjodji.

Speaking to 228foot, Koudjodji said the Eperviers would need to impose themselves from the first whistle and prevent the Hirondelles from settling into the contest at the stade de Kegue.

Early pressure key for Togo

The former coach of Espoir FC, Agaza and AS Binah believes the opening stages could set the tone for the match. He recommends that Togo apply strong pressure immediately, with the aim of scoring early and placing Burundi under pressure.

A quick start would allow the home side to dictate the tempo rather than give their opponents time to grow in confidence. Koudjodji’s assessment is that Togo must be proactive from the outset as it begins its pursuit of qualification for CAN 2027.

Warning over Burundi counter-attacks

Koudjodji also stressed that attacking intent must be matched by defensive discipline. If the Eperviers commit players forward in search of a goal, they will need to ensure they do not leave spaces for Burundi to exploit on the counter-attack.

That balance will be particularly important as Togo looks to maintain pressure without exposing itself to quick transitions. The home side’s ability to protect its defence while attacking could prove decisive.

Using the wide areas

Koudjodji expects the flanks to offer Togo an important route to creating chances. He believes the game could be decided by small details, making it essential for the Eperviers to combine attacking intensity with greater efficiency in the final third.

Togo will therefore need to make the most of its opportunities near goal while remaining alert whenever possession is lost. For Koudjodji, a winning start will depend on the team’s ability to control the match, use the wide areas effectively and maintain defensive vigilance throughout.

The match against Burundi is Togo’s fixture in the 1st round of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.