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Adebayor optimistic of Togo victory
Accra, March 27, Ghanadot/GNA –
The captain of Togo’s national team, the Hawks, Emmanuel
Sheyi Adebayor has expressed optimism in his side’s ability
to snatch the maximum points at the expense of Cameroon in
Saturday’s crucial 2010 World Cup/Africa Cup of Nations
Group A clash.
The Hawks launch their campaign for the final round of the
2010 World Cup/Africa Cup of Nations at the Ohene Djan
Sports Stadium in Accra, due to a four-match home ban and
the Arsenal hit-man remains upbeat about their chances.
At a press conference on Friday, Adebayor who is returning
from a six-week lay off said the Hawks have the capability
to beat the four-time Africa Champions.
“Cameroon is one of the strongest sides in Africa with some
world-class players.
“We are however determined to give-off our best and we will
do our best to achieve victory.”
The lanky striker, whose four goals against Swaziland last
October powered the Hawks into the final round has dispelled
any fears of playing away from home.
“Ghana has been a second home to us and we always feel at
home anytime we play here. The local fans have been very
supportive and we expect the same treat on Saturday.
“We played in Ghana to reach this far and want to begin the
final phase also on a high note,” he added.
This is Togo’s final match of the four-match home ban
imposed on them by the Confederation of African Football (CAF)
for crowd-related offences during a Nations Cup qualifier
against Mali in 2005 and Adebayor is envisaging a positive
climax.
“This is our last match here (Accra) and want to end it on
the high. We are grateful for the support showed us by
Ghanaians and will love to come back any day and any time.”
Head coach Jean Thissen on his part has calmed all fitness
worries of his team, insisting all the players are fit.
“All my players are fit. On Adebayor, I called Arsene Wenger
(Coach of Arsenal) and he has given me the green-light to
field him.”
Thissen assumed his new role few weeks ago but is optimistic
the little time spent with the team will prove crucial for
his team’s victory.
“I have a fair idea of the team and I’m sure of a positive
outing against the Indomitable Lions.”
In the Group A match, Morocco’s Atlas Lions will square off
against the Azingo National of Gabon in Casablanca.
Only the top placed team after the round-robin will qualify
for the World Cup with the top three grabbing tickets for
the Angola 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.
GNA
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