For their last game in the group B, France beat Togo (2-0). In the stadium Parsemain of Fos-sur-Mer, Johan Radet’s men dominated the opposition. The Togolese had good intentions but reduced to ten, can’t compete.
The Scotland win over South Korea a few minutes before the game buried France’s hopes for a qualification. Despite the disappointment, « Les Bleuets » enter the pitch to win. In a game that they control from beginning to the end, they beat a Togolese squad reduced to ten at the 30th minute.
The Frenchs start the game intensely. They settle in Togolese side and take the control of the ball. Their domination is rewarded with a goal. The « Tricolores » open the score on a beautiful play. After a long pass from the central back Moukoudi, the left back Perraud crosses to Deminguet. The Caen midfielder passes it with the chest to Ludovic Blas. The player of Guingamp instantly volleys the ball into the goal. Few minutes before half-time, the captain of the day's band, Harold Moukoudi, scores again for the break. At the 39th minute, Bryan Lasme finishes a beautiful collective play and sends a powerful shot into the net.
The Togolese, reduced to ten after Gabjabo was sent-off (31th), show themselves just one time. On a solo play, where he shows his power and technical quality, Kevin Denkey is stopped by Dimitry Bertaud. The French side go back to the changing room with two goals further.
The second half starts on the same pace rhythm. The French have the possession and the Togolese are running to catch it back. « Les Bleuets » approach the box but the technical mistakes prevent them from real goal occasions. French squad finishes on a good result and ends its tournament on a second place that eliminates the team. They will have now to play a ranking match. Togo also, finishing thrid of the group.
Azir Said Mohamed Cheik
Credits photo : Eric Estrade
France – Togo : 2-0
Matchday 3 - Group B
Stade Parsemain, Fos sur Mer
Goals : Blas (6'), Lasme (39')
France : Bertaud – Perraud, Nyamsi, Moukoudi, Michelin (Campinini, 55') – Deminguet (Tell, 40'), Bouriaud, Bellegarde, Blas (Fuchs, 66') – Ambri (Kanga, 52'), Lasme
Coach : Johan Radet
Togo : Agblemagnon – Yenoussi, Ouro-Sama (c), Toudji, Djoyagbo – Gadjabo, Mensah (Komi, 40'), Nyavedji, Balgou – Wogodo (Ahoro, 40'), Denkey (Agoro, 69')
Coach : Jean-Paul Abalo
Referees : Mr Ortiz Nava (MEX), Mr Camargo (MEX), Mr Quintero (MEX)