Getafe injury leaves Togo captain Djene’s qualifier role unresolved

Djene Dakonam’s participation in Togo’s opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers remains uncertain after the captain was injured while playing for Getafe.

The 34-year-old centre-back was substituted in the 65th minute of Getafe’s 1-0 victory over Malaga on Sunday. He must undergo further medical examinations to establish the exact nature of the injury and determine whether he will be fit to join the national-team squad.

Togo are due to face Burundi on 25 September before playing Zambia four days later, on 29 September.

Patrice Neveu was present at the start of the Eperviers’ training camp in Lome on Monday but said he was still waiting for more information about his captain’s condition.

“For now, I am waiting for Djene’s feedback after he had a problem in his last match. I will speak to him on the phone shortly,” Togo’s head coach said.

“I hope all his medical results will be positive so that he can arrive in the best possible condition.”

Djene’s availability is now one of the main concerns for Togo as preparations begin for the two qualifying fixtures. The team will first meet Burundi on 25 September and then face Zambia on 29 September in the race to qualify for CAN 2027.