October 8, 2005: When Togo's dream arrived at the World Cup | OneFootball

From Lomé to Sokodé, from Kara to Dapaong, the whole of Togo was united in a single voice.

October 8, 2005: When Togo's dream arrived at the World Cup

October 8, 2005 will forever remain a blessed date in the memory of Togolese football. On that day, at the Alphonse Massamba-Débat Stadium in Brazzaville, under the eyes of 20,000 spectators, the Sparrowhawks secured their ticket to the 2006 World Cup in Germany. It was a historic first for the nation.

The task was anything but easy. Togo traveled to Brazzaville to face Congo on the final day of Group 1 qualifiers. Behind them, Senegal, a 2002 World Cup quarterfinalist, was waiting to capitalize on any slip-up to reclaim the top spot. But Stephen Keshi’s men had a date with destiny.

A tough match from the start

It was Congo who struck first, with Bertrand Bouity opening the scoring in the 26th minute. But Togo kept their composure. In the 40th minute, Emmanuel Adebayor equalized, reigniting hope for the Sparrowhawks.

In the second half, Congo retook the lead in the 56th minute through Armel Mamouna-Ossila. Once again, the Sparrowhawks found themselves with their backs against the wall. But that’s when Mohamed Kader decided to change everything. In just ten minutes, he scored twice—at the 60th and 70th minutes—sealing a 3-2 victory for Togo.

When a dream becomes reality

This triumph was much more than a simple sporting success. It symbolized a nation’s pride, the reward for months of sacrifice, and the confirmation of an exceptional team. Behind this moment of eternity stood the guiding hand of one man: Stephen Keshi, the Nigerian coach.

Visionary and charismatic, he transformed a squad brimming with talent into a united, disciplined, and conquering team. Under his leadership, Togo learned to dream big, to fear no one, and to truly believe in their own star.