Zambia’s matchday two opponents in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, Togo, have included only one locally based player in their preliminary squad for the upcoming international window.

Head coach Patrice Neveu has named a 28-player preliminary squad for the Sparrowhawks’ opening Group I qualifiers against Burundi on September 25 at home before travelling to Ndola to face Zambia on September 29, 2026.

The squad is largely made up of players based outside the country, with goalkeeper Mensah Ekué of ASCK the only player selected from the Togolese domestic league.

Neveu has recalled a core group of experienced players while also adding new faces as he looks to strengthen his squad for the two important qualifiers.

The squad includes notable additions such as defender Henri Koudossou of German side Arminia Bielefeld, who could make his senior national-team debut if he earns a place in the final squad.

The defensive department also includes Saudi Arabia-based Kennedy Boateng, Steven Nador of Modena in Italy, Gustave Akueson of Bastia in France, TP Mazembe’s Abdoul-Sabourh Bodé and Pierre Nadjombé of Magdeburg in Germany.

Some of the players recalled include Sharani Zuberu, who missed the previous camp through injury, as well as Kodjo Aziangbé and Youssifou Atté.

In midfield, the French coach has options that include Aziangbé, Karim Dermane, Roger Aholou, Samsindin Ouro, Sadik Fofana, Faad Sana, Djené Dakonam and Zuberu.

In attack, Neveu has picked Kevin Denkey, Charles Abi, Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba, Arnaud Komlavi, Mansour Ouro-Tagba, Yaw Annor and Farid Alidou.