Togo head coach Patrice Neveu says his side have travelled to Zambia with one objective — to take a result — despite acknowledging the quality and history of their opponents.
The Hawks arrive in Ndola with confidence after opening their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign with a 1-0 victory over Burundi on Friday.
Zambia, meanwhile, are looking to respond after suffering a 3-1 defeat by Algeria in their opening Group I fixture.
Neveu believes the victory over Burundi has provided his rebuilding Togo side with an important confidence boost ahead of Tuesday’s encounter at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
“We are pleased to have started this first elimination phase with a victory at home. It certainly gives my team confidence,” Neveu told reporters.
The French coach, however, is under no illusions about the challenge awaiting his team in Zambia.
“We know we are rebuilding and that we are coming to play here in Zambia, in a country that is renowned for its football. We know it will be a difficult match to play,” he said.
But Neveu insists Togo have not travelled simply to make up the numbers.
“We came here with ambition. We made the trip to get a result.”
The coach also pointed to Zambia’s footballing history, recalling the country’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2012 under former coach Hervé Renard.
“I know the quality of your squad well. My friend Hervé Renard was there in 2012 and you were African champions. So I know the team’s journey well and I know its potential well,” Neveu said.
Togo will therefore approach the game with respect, but without fear.
“We have great respect for the value of your team, but of course, as you understand, we made the trip to get a result,” he added.
Neveu also has personal history with Zambia.
The Frenchman was in charge of Guinea when they faced Zambia at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where Guinea recorded a 2-1 victory.
“I’ve played them, I even beat them in 2006 at the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt,” Neveu recalled.
“But having beaten them doesn’t mean I’m going to beat them tomorrow. And since they’ve beaten us three times, it doesn’t mean they’re going to beat us. The match will tell.”
The coach expects Zambia to make the contest physical, but believes his side must remain true to their footballing identity.
“They will try to impose a physical challenge on us, and we will have to respond with our style of football,” he said.
Tuesday’s meeting carries significant importance for both sides.
Togo can build on their winning start with another positive result, while Zambia need a response after their disappointing opening-day defeat in Algeria.
The two teams meet at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium at 18:00 CAT on Tuesday, with Zambia hoping home advantage can help them get their qualifying campaign back on track.
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Tickets are also available from official FAZ sales agents in Ndola.
