The 2-0 scoreline does not reflect my team’s performance – Togo coach
The 2-0 scoreline does not reflect my team’s performance – Togo coach
TOGO coach Patrice Neveu says the 2-0 defeat to Zambia does not reflect the performance his team put up in their AFCON 2027 qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola last evening.
Neveu said at a post match briefing that conceding an early goal made things difficult for Togo, but his players regrouped and produced a better performance, particularly in the second half.
“Unfortunately we conceded the first goal too quickly. It made things difficult for us. But I think we had the chance to come back,” Neveu said.
Albert Kangwanda put Zambia ahead in the second minute before Elia Mandanji sealed the victory in stoppage time.
Despite the defeat, Neveu said he was generally satisfied with how his players performed.
“The score doesn’t reflect the efficiency of the game. But we have to go on. In general, I think I’m happy with the performance of my team,” he said.
Neveu said Togo recovered after conceding early and played good football, especially in the second half.
He, however, said his players failed to put Zambia under enough pressure and were unable to finish some of the opportunities they created.
“I think we have not put the Zambian team in danger enough. And defensively, we have not weighed enough,” Neveu said.
The Togo coach acknowledged Zambia’s quality, saying the Chipolopolo played to their potential and have players capable of producing good football.
“I think the Zambian team has played with their potential, as we know, they have very good quality players,” he said.
Neveu said Togo also responded well on the pitch but lacked the cutting edge needed to turn their opportunities into goals.
He said his players managed to put Zambia under pressure at certain moments but failed to complete their attacks.
The defeat leaves Togo on three points in Group I, with Zambia also on three points but ahead on goal difference.
By Kalemba
Kalemba September 30, 2026