15 May 2011
Togo have dethroned Nigeria as champions of the sub-regional WAFU Cup winning 3-2 and so doing, halted Samson Siasias winning streak as Eagles coach.
Since taking charge of Nigeria in December, Siasia has won his first six games, but Togo stopped this impressive run Saturday afternoon.
The Hawks of Togo thus pocked the cash prize of $25,000.
In a tournament packed with surprises, Liberia also stopped Ghana 3-1 to win third place.
Samuel Thompson hit a brace with Patrick Wleh also on the score sheet, while Bright Nsiah pulled a goal back for the Ghanaians from the penalty spot on 82 minutes.
Togo stunned the big crowd at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta as early as the third minute when Atakora Lalawele headed past dodgy goalkeeper Sunday Rotimi.
Lalawele then set up Wome Dove for Togos second goal after just 22 minutes, before Heartland midfielder Bartholomew Ibenegbu pulled a goal back for Nigeria four minutes later.
Nigeria were reduced to 10 men after defender Gege Soriola was sent off for dangerous play in the 33rd minute.
But despite this setback, Ibenegbu drew Nigeria level in first half stoppage time when he stylishly tucked away a penalty after striker Ekigho Ehiosun was brought down inside the box.
But moments later, Lalaweles free kick surprised goalkeeper Rotimi, who punched into his own net.
Togo were also reduced to 10 men after 57 minutes when Sadare Ouro-Akoriko received his second booking of the day.
Both sides had chances to score more goals with Ehiosuns late header inside the box crashing against the foot of the post for the Togo goalie to gladly save.
