Togo vs Burundi | Highlights | Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 2027

Togo Edges Burundi to Take Early Lead in Group I of AFCON 2027 Qualifiers — RELIVE THE MATCH HERE!

Togo got off to a winning start in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, beating Burundi 1-0 on Friday at Stade de Kégué in Lomé. The Éperviers made home advantage count to collect three points in their Group I opener, which also features Algeria and Zambia.

LIGUE 1 MIDFIELDER MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

The only goal came in the 17th minute, when Dermane Karim, the Troyes midfielder from France’s Ligue 1, converted an assist from Zuberu Sharani to put the hosts ahead. Karim unleashed a powerful right-footed strike from the edge of the penalty area that found the post and beat the goalkeeper, ultimately securing the victory for Togo.

THE ÉPERVIERS HOLD ON TO SECURE THREE POINTS

After the opener, Burundi pushed for an equalizer, but Togo remained organized defensively throughout the second half. The visitors came close in the 50th minute, when Elie Mokono unleashed a long-range effort that rattled the crossbar.

The hosts nearly doubled their advantage in stoppage time as well, but Seko Fofana, who plays for Porto in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, missed a chance to put the game beyond Burundi’s reach.

Managed by Patrice Neveu, Togo secured a crucial victory to open its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. The Éperviers will now travel to face Zambia on September 29, while Burundi will host Algeria.

Key Takeaways

• Togo defeated Burundi 1-0 at Stade de Kégué to open its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with three points.
• Dermane Karim scored in the 17th minute, converting an assist from Zuberu Sharani with a powerful right-footed strike from the edge of the box.
• Togo held off Burundi's pressure, including a crossbar hit by Elie Mokono, and will next travel to face Zambia on September 29.

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