The Togo national team are expected to adopt a cautious approach when they face Algeria in Tizi Ouzou on Saturday, 14 November 2026, in the third round of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.
Head coach Patrice Neveu could make several changes to his starting XI for the difficult away fixture, with the absences of Kevin Boma and Steven Nador forcing him to reorganise his defence.
Those changes could give Lilian Brassier the chance to make his first appearance for Togo. The defender is expected to line up alongside Kennedy Boateng and Loic Bessile in a three-man central defence.
Abdoul-Sabourh Bode and Augustin Drakpe could operate in the wide defensive positions, completing a back five designed to provide greater protection against Algeria’s attacking threat.
The expected structure would allow the Eperviers to remain compact and reduce the space available in and around their penalty area. Togo may have to cope without long spells of possession, making defensive organisation particularly important.
Togo’s expected midfield and attack
Dermane Karim and Dakonam Djene are likely to be given responsibility for closing down spaces in midfield and limiting Algeria’s influence in the centre of the pitch.
Charles Abi could play a more advanced linking role, connecting the midfield with the attack and helping Togo move forward when opportunities arise.
Further upfield, the return of Thibault Klidje could provide Neveu’s side with an important attacking option. His pace and ability to take on defenders may offer Togo a way to threaten Algeria on the counter-attack.
Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba, meanwhile, would provide a physical presence and a focal point for the team’s attacking play. His ability to hold the ball up could allow the rest of the Togo side to move higher up the pitch.
The partnership between Laba and Klidje would give Togo two contrasting attacking outlets. Laba would offer strength, hold-up play and a target for forward passes, while Klidje could look to exploit space with his pace and direct running.
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT at the Hocine-Ait-Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou.
Togo’s probable starting XI: Malcolm Barcola; Kennedy Boateng, Lilian Brassier, Loic Bessile; Abdoul-Sabourh Bode, Augustin Drakpe; Dermane Karim, Dakonam Djene, Charles Abi; Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba, Thibault Klidje
