Algeria vs. Togo: Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying Preview
In an exciting showdown on Thursday, Algeria will host Togo in a crucial Group E qualifier for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Fennec Foxes are determined to maintain their flawless start to the campaign after winning their first two matches, placing them firmly at the top of the group.
Algeria’s Form and Strengths
Algeria enters this clash with momentum, boasting six points from their opening two matches, including victories over Equatorial Guinea and Liberia, both accompanied by clean sheets. The team’s impressive 16-match unbeaten streak in AFCON qualifiers—dating back to a 2018 loss to Benin—has established them as a formidable force. Remarkably, Algeria hasn’t lost a qualifying match at home since 2007, making their home ground a fortress.
Under the guidance of new manager Vladimir Petkovic, Algeria has rebounded strongly since a World Cup qualifying defeat to Guinea. The team is currently on a three-match winning streak, and a win against Togo would further solidify their position in Group E, putting them in an advantageous spot for qualification.
Algeria’s roster features star players like Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani, whose experience and talent will be vital in facing a struggling Togo side.
Togo’s Challenges
Togo, on the other hand, is approaching this match with a sense of urgency. With only two points from two matches, they currently sit behind Algeria in the group. The team’s recent performances have been concerning, as they have drawn both of their opening games. Their last outing saw them rely on a last-minute equalizer from Kodjo Fo Doh Laba in a 2-2 draw against Equatorial Guinea.
Defensively, Togo has struggled, having gone five matches without a win across all competitions and conceding three goals in their opening two qualifiers. The newly appointed manager, Dare Nibombe, is still searching for his first victory in charge, and his team’s defensive vulnerabilities will be put to the test against Algeria’s strong attacking lineup.
Team News
Algeria will be without goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea, who has not been called up due to personal reasons, and Alexandre Okidja, who is unavailable due to lack of match fitness. New talent Ibrahim Maza, a 20-year-old forward, has been included in the squad alongside Badredine Bouanani and Ahmed Touba, both of whom have been performing well at their clubs.
Togo will miss the influential Kodjo Laba, a key player in their AFCON qualifying campaign. His absence is a significant setback, and the team will need to find alternative scoring solutions. Goalkeeper Geoffrey Agbolossou will play a crucial role in keeping Algeria’s attackers at bay.
Predicted Lineups:
Algeria:
– Bouhalfaya; Mandi, Ait-Nouri, Bensebaini; Farsi, Boudawi, Zerrouki, Aouar, Hadjam; Gouiri, Mahrez
Togo:
– Agbolossou; Akueson, Djene, Amevor; Narey, Aholou, Romao, Agbagno; Tchakei, Placca; Denkey
