Togo head coach Patrice Neveu says his side must learn to be more clinical and better organised after they were held to a 1-1 draw by the Central African Republic in an international friendly on Friday in Mohammedia.
The result left the Hawks frustrated, particularly after a dominant second-half display in which they created multiple chances but failed to secure a winning goal.
Despite disappointment at not taking all three points, Neveu focused on the positives in his team’s performance, especially after the interval.
“Overall, we were dominant, especially in the second half. We played that second half in their half,” he said, reflecting on his side’s control of the game.
Togo had started the match with more possession and territorial advantage, dictating large parts of the opening exchanges.
However, they were punished in the 26th minute when the Central African Republic struck against the run of play through Koyalipou, giving the visitors a surprise lead.
The Hawks continued to control possession but struggled to break down a compact opposition defence before half-time, heading into the break trailing despite their superior share of the ball.
After the restart, Togo increased their intensity and were rewarded when striker Kevin Denkey found the equaliser. The forward finished clinically after being set up by Karim Dermane, bringing the hosts level and shifting momentum firmly in their favour.
From that point, Togo pushed forward in search of a winner, spending long spells in the opposition half and creating repeated pressure.
Neveu made several changes to maintain the tempo, introducing Djibril Bastou, Faad Sana and Arnaud Komlanvi to inject fresh energy into the attack. The substitutions added pace and urgency, with Togo continuing to probe for a decisive breakthrough.
However, despite their attacking pressure, the Hawks were unable to convert their dominance into goals, a concern the coach acknowledged after the match.
“This kind of match must serve us well for the future. We must be able to take the lead when opportunities arise and then manage the game much better,” Neveu explained.
He also pointed to issues in collective organisation and fatigue among some senior players at the end of a demanding season.
“Even though the second half was better in my opinion, we had too many collective deficiencies in our movement… Individually, I have important players on the team who are also tired from their season,” he added.
While critical of the overall execution, Neveu praised the impact of his substitutes and highlighted the encouraging performance of young forward Djibril Bastou.
“In the second half, thanks to the changes made, there was much more energy and speed in the game; that’s what we’re looking for to unsettle the opposition .”
“I was pleased with the return of young Djibril, who needs to gain confidence, but it was promising.”
