Togolese international goalkeeper Yaya Achirafou has completed a move to Ivorian top-flight side Amadou Diallo Football Academy (AFAD) following an impressive individual campaign with Lys Sassandra.
The transfer, confirmed on 12 August 2025, marks a significant step in the 20-year-old’s career as he prepares to compete in both the domestic league and the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup.
Achirafou, widely regarded as one of Togo’s most promising footballers, joins a club with continental ambitions after a season in which his performances earned him recognition despite his former team’s struggles.
AFAD, chaired by former Ivorian Football Federation president Jacques Anouma, has made youth development a central part of its strategy, and the acquisition of Achirafou is seen as a key component of their plans to challenge established giants such as ASEC Mimosas and Stade d’Abidjan.
The move comes after a breakthrough season for the young shot-stopper, who first rose to prominence at BoSports Academy in Anié, Togo, before signing for Lys Sassandra in 2024.
In his debut campaign in the Ivorian Ligue 1, Achirafou made 22 appearances, conceding just 19 goals — averaging fewer than one per match — and recording six clean sheets.
His consistency stood out in a team that ultimately suffered relegation to Ligue 2 at the end of the 2024-2025 season. Among his notable contributions were two penalty saves from three faced, underlining his composure in high-pressure moments.
Such displays earned him the title of Meilleur Limane (best player) at Lys Sassandra, an honour rarely awarded to a goalkeeper. He was also named player of the month on three occasions and featured in the league’s team of the week five times.
AFAD’s decision to sign Achirafou on a two-year contract reflects both his potential and his immediate value to a squad looking to compete at the highest level domestically and in Africa.
With the club set to enter the preliminary rounds of the CAF Confederation Cup, his arrival bolsters a defensive unit that will be tested against both local rivals and international opposition.
On the international stage, Achirafou’s talent has already been recognised by Togo’s national team coach Daré Nibombé, who handed him his first senior call-up during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Although injury prevented him from making his debut against Mauritania, his selection signalled his growing importance to the Hawks’ long-term plans.
For Achirafou, the move to AFAD offers both a new challenge and an opportunity to further refine his skills in a competitive environment. For AFAD, it represents an investment in a player whose profile fits their vision of blending youthful energy with competitive ambition.
As the new Ligue 1 Lonaci season approaches, all eyes will be on the Togolese goalkeeper to see whether his performances can help propel AFAD towards their objectives and confirm his status as one of West Africa’s brightest emerging talents.
