Togo / D1 Lonato : AS OTR vs. Étoile Filante, the first clash of the season
In Togo, things get serious for the new season of the D1 Lonato national championship, which begins this Saturday, November 8th, at the Lomé Municipal Stadium. A classic clash in the capital will take place between AS OTR and Étoile Filante. A promising duel between two ambitious teams, ready to make a strong impression from the very first matchday.
For Étoile Filante, it's time to bounce back under the guidance of their new coach, Tony Agbessi. The former Tambo coach hopes for a successful start to instill confidence in his squad. His key players, Sotodji Atsou, Lucien Nassou, and their teammates, will need to remain solid defensively and sharp in attack to surprise an opponent that is always difficult to break down.
Last season, the two teams drew. A victory for As OTR in the first leg (1-0), then a revenge for “Shooting Star” in the return leg (1-0).
AS OTR, for its part, has high ambitions. The Ghanaian coach, a proponent of possession-based football, will want to impose his philosophy and starve the Blues of the ball. Despite the departure of captain Mathieu Dotsé, the tax collectors will be able to count on the youth and energy of Francis Tanko.
Furthermore, new signing John Akakpo will help stabilize the midfield and aim for a victory, or failing that, a draw. The main objective would be to avoid a defeat to start the season.
Essohana Lemou
Dailysports's expert