By Samuel Gacharira,
The Sparrow Hawks completed a double over the Cranes in the process extending their dominance over them to six matches.
Serge Akakpo’s goal was the difference between these two equally matched sides. The win now puts Togo in second position in Group E with six points, two behind leaders Ghana. In third position is Uganda who are level on four points with Guinea but have a superior goal difference.
Milutin`Micho` Sredojevic rung a couple of changes in his starting line up with Isaac Isinde replacing suspended Andy Mwesigwa while Brian Umony partnered Geoffrey Massa in attack. His opposite number Tchakala Tchanile maintained the same line up that did duty three days ago in Kampala.
The hosts showed early intent to go forward. In the 27th minute, talismanic forward Emmanuel Adebayor thought he had given the hosts the lead after he rounded goalkeeper Dennis Onyango only for Savio Kabugo to clear it off the line.
That was the only real chance of the first half as the visitors played a highly defensive game hoping to catch Togo on the counter.
On resumption, Micho pulled out Brian Umony for Brian Majwegga in the 54th minute.Four minutes later, Majwegga spurned what was the best chance for the visitors when he failed to convert a one on one chance.
Ten minutes after the hour mark, defender Serge Akakpo rose high to score past a hapless Dennis Onyango following a perfect delivery by Jonathan Ayite from the right flank. The goal brought the Stade de Kegue into frenzy as the home fans rallied behind their team.
Dan Sserunkuma’s late inclusion did not pay any dividend as the hosts held on to their lead which is also their first home victory this campaign.
Togo are set to host Guinea in their next fixture as Uganda welcome Ghana in Kampala late in November.
