Togo national team coach Patrice Neveu has announced a 31-man preliminary squad for the upcoming friendlies against Algeria on November 14 and 17. The squad includes four goalkeepers, 12 defenders, eight midfielders, and seven forwards. The friendlies will be played in Tizi Ouzou and Lomé, with the hosts yet to be confirmed. This announcement marks an important step in the team's preparation for the upcoming international break.
The preliminary squad features a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Lilian Brassier, a defender from Eintracht Frankfurt, has been called up for the first time. Brassier's inclusion is seen as a surprise, but he will be hoping to make a strong impression and earn his first cap for Togo. Other notable players in the squad include Kevin Denkey, Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba, and Djené Dakonam, who have all been in good form for their respective clubs.
The Togo national team will be looking to make a strong impression against Algeria, one of the top teams in Africa. According to the Togolese Football Federation, the team will need to be "solid and realistic" in their approach if they are to succeed against their opponents. The friendlies will provide an opportunity for the team to test themselves against a top-class opponent and prepare for future competitions.
The squad includes several players who ply their trade in top European leagues. Goalkeeper Steven Mensah plays for FC Etzella Ettelbruck in Luxembourg, while Malcolm Barcola is with Ittihad Riadi de Tanger in Morocco. Defender Pierre Nadjombe plays for FC Magdebourg, and midfielder Kodjo Aziangbe is with Shanghai Port FC. The team's diverse talent pool will be an asset as they look to achieve a positive result against Algeria.
The friendlies against Algeria will be an important test for Togo's squad dynamics and tactical approach. Coach Patrice Neveu will be looking to assess his players' fitness levels, teamwork, and adaptability in a competitive setting. The team's performance will provide valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses ahead of future international competitions.
Lilian Brassier's call-up is a significant development for the young defender. Having played for Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, he will be looking to make a strong impression on the international stage. If he is included in the final squad, Brassier will be hoping to earn his first cap and establish himself as a key player for Togo.
The final squad will be announced in the coming days, with coach Patrice Neveu set to trim the preliminary squad to its final 23-man roster. The Togo national team will be looking to build on their recent performances and make a positive impact against Algeria. The friendlies will be an important step in their preparation for future competitions, and fans will be eagerly anticipating the team's performance.
Key points
- Lilian Brassier's surprise call-up to the Togo national team
- Togo to face Algeria in friendlies on November 14 and 17
- Preliminary squad features 31 players from various clubs in Europe and Africa
