Togo made a surprise appearance in World Cup 2006, held in Germany, but their chances for qualification seem dim so far in Group A. Placed 3rd, they have managed to accumulate only 6 points and are 4 points behind leaders
Cameroon. However with a win here they will be in the running for one of just a few playoff spots left for teams who didn't finish top of their Group. Led by in-form
Manchester City striker
Emmanuel Adebayor, the sparrowhawks will try to unseat the 2nd place team and keep World Cup hopes alive. They are favorites here playing at home, but their last international match was an away friendly against Japan where they failed to score a single goal and allowed 5. With everything to win here and nothing to lose, expect a semi-attacking formation that could lead to the
Manchester hitman netting a couple of goals.
Gabon, who were once known as the 'magic square' because of their impressive midfield game in the 1980's are on the verge of entering the World Cup after decades of being left out. Placed 2nd in Group A, they have accumulated 9 points and are just 1 point behind group leaders
Cameroon. Their chances at qualifying depend largely on how Cameroon perform while playing in
Morocco. If Cameroon fail to get a point,
Gabon will still be in the running with a draw. However if
Cameroon draw or lose and Gabon win, they will reach their first World Cup since the 1990's. Coming off of a 3-1 defeat of Morocco at home in October, their confidence will be high as they attempt to upset the home team who are the current favorites.
Both teams are playing for a win here as a draw will do neither team much good. With their home crowd in support,
Togo's recent poor form will be left behind as they attempt to find the net and get 3 points.
Gabon will also be risking all to gain 3 points to unseat current leaders Cameroon, so expect several goals in this match.
Togo vs. Gabon
Saturday November 14, 2009
Kickoff: 16:30 CET
Tip: Over 2.5 Goals
Best Odds: 1.95 @ BetClic
