Mahrez’s Algeria target spotless start in Togo clash

Algeria will be targeting a perfect start in their Afcon qualifying campaign when they take on Togo at the 19 May 1956 Stadium in Annaba on Thursday evening.

Kick-off is at 21:00 CAT (SA, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

The hosts Algeria won their first two matches in Group E against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia respectively and are currently sitting at the top of the standings with six points.

The Desert Foxes have found their rhythm under the guidance of their new head coach, Vladimir Petkovic and will be eyeing another win in their fixture against Togo to mark a faultless start to their qualifying campaign.

As for Togo, the nation will be hoping for their first win in their campaign as they’ve drawn their first two fixtures against Liberia and Equatorial Guinea.

They follow Algeria in second place of the group and a win could bring them just one point within reach of their opponents.

WHAT WAS SAID

Vladimir Petkovic said he is ready for his 'new challenge' as head coach of Algeria as he was presented to the media two months ago.

“In my previous experiences, I had a lot of African players, but now the football is at an international level,” he said.

“African football is undoubtedly different from European football. It’s more competitive, and right now, it’s witnessing significant development. We saw this in the last TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, which was of a very high standard.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Riyad Mahrez, Algeria - The Al-Ahli winger dominated the Saudi Pro League last season when he recorded 13 assists, and is looking to replicate that same form in this one. He is one to watch as he trained with the team on Tuesday ahead of the match.

Roger Aholou, Togo - The defensive midfielder has been crucial for the Sparrowhawks and has even recorded a goal during this Afcon qualifying campaign for his country. He poses a threat as a huge asset to the defence, but also poses an offensive threat.