Togo national team coach Patrice Neveu was involved in a heated exchange with a journalist during a press conference on Tuesday, November 4, 2026. The incident occurred when Neveu was asked about his team's ambitions against Algeria in the upcoming CAN 2027 qualifiers. The question seemed to provoke a strong reaction from Neveu, who felt it was an attempt to destabilize his team. The press conference was held to announce his squad for the upcoming matches against Algeria on November 14 and 17.
Neveu, 72, expressed frustration and disappointment during the press conference, stating that his contract does not include an obligation to qualify for the CAN 2027. However, he emphasized his desire to qualify the team for the tournament, saying "I want to qualify the Togo team for the CAN 2027, I want to." The coach also highlighted his long-term project to rebuild the Togolese national team. He stressed that his primary mission is to reconstruct the team, which has had mixed results lately, including a win against Burundi and a loss to Zambia.
The tension escalated when Neveu directly addressed the journalist who asked the question, inviting him to stand up in front of the audience. "You are in the wrong place... Levez-vous, puisque vous m'avez parlé. Levez-vous et moi je vais me lever. Levez-vous qu'on vous voit," Neveu said, pounding his fist on the table. The coach's reaction sparked a significant controversy in Togo, with many criticizing his behavior. The Journalists for Human Rights association (JDHO) condemned Neveu's attitude, citing the right of journalists to ask questions, even if they are uncomfortable.
Neveu also emphasized the quality of the Algerian team, mentioning that they have players from top European clubs. "Et vous voulez me faire croire quoi? Qu'on affronte une petite équipe?" he said, implying that his team will face a tough opponent. The Algerian team, led by coach Vladimir Petkovic, will face Togo in the CAN 2027 qualifiers. Petkovic's team has been preparing for the matches, and Neveu's comments suggest that he has a lot of respect for their abilities.
The incident has sparked a reaction from the Togolese Football Federation, with president Guy Akpovy presenting his "sincere apologies" for the coach's behavior. Akpovy defended the freedom of the press, stating that journalists have the right to ask questions. The episode has created a stir in Togo, with many people discussing Neveu's reaction and its implications for the team.
The Togo team, also known as the Eperviers, currently sits third in their group in the CAN 2027 qualifiers. They will need to perform well against Algeria to keep their chances of qualification alive. Neveu's comments suggest that he is determined to lead his team to a good result against a strong Algerian side.
The double-header against Algeria will be an important test for both teams, with the Togolese team looking to bounce back from a mixed set of results. The Algerian team, on the other hand, will seek to build on their recent performances and secure a spot in the CAN 2027.
Key points
- Togo coach Patrice Neveu involved in heated exchange with journalist over Algeria question.
- Neveu emphasizes desire to qualify Togo for CAN 2027 despite contractual obligations.
- Incident sparks controversy in Togo, with many criticizing Neveu's behavior.
