Togo’s Unheralded Star

Little by little, the mystery of Togo, Korea’s first opponent in 2006 World Cup Germany, is being revealed.

Togo’s Adekanmi Olufade (26) is a player to watch out for in this year’s World Cup tournament. He plays in the Qatar League, and is a veteran of league play in France and Belgium.

Togo beat Ghana, 1-0 in an evaluation match in Monastir, Tunisia on January 12. The victory was delivered by Olufade, who scored 28 minutes into second half.

Togo was criticized after it lost to Guinea, 0-1 on January 7 in a game where most of its starters did not play. The French media called it a terrible game. But on Tuesday, Togo won after dominating its opponent Ghana, one of the five African countries that will participate in this year’s World Cup.

But like in past matches, Togo also revealed weaknesses on defense that must be corrected.

The foreign media called the game a “belated start” for Togo, which did not use its best striker, Emmanuel Adebayor (22), and was hurt by frequent passing errors in the first half.

Olufade changed the mood of the game after coming into the game in the second half, however.

Olufade threatened Ghana with his quick dribbles and razor sharp passes. The turning point came when Alilu Odu dodged a defender and passed the ball to Olufade, whose right foot sent the pass bouncing into the goal.

Olufade has scored one goal after playing in six matches in the preliminary round. It is not much compared to Adebayor’s 11 goals. But his technique and fast feet was impressive coming from Olufade, who stands 170cm tall.

Korean Football Association officials warned that Olufade’s fast feet could broaden the space for Adebayor’s attacks.

Togo has featured a few of their main starters in its last two games.

Against Guinea, versatile Junior Senaya (22) showed a good set up capacity; and against Ghana, Olufade showed his capacity to penetrate.

These two players will team up with Adebayor, the team’s offensive star. How effective and distinct this troika will play is key to understanding Togo’s capabilities. Togo goalie Agasa (28) also showed good defense.

Won-Hong Lee bluesky@donga.com