Captain Agnamba: Togo Eager to Make History Ahead of Davis Cup Showdown with India
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Synopsis
As Togo prepares for their Davis Cup clash against India, captain Agnamba Ali expresses the team's determination to make history. After a 19-year absence, Togo's team is driven to achieve their first World Group 1 appearance.
Key Takeaways
- Togo returns to the Davis Cup after 19 years.
- They aim for their first World Group 1 appearance.
- Captain Agnamba Ali emphasizes the team's hunger for victory.
- Recent performances include wins over Indonesia and Latvia.
- The team spirit among players is strong and motivating.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Togo, a tiny nation in Africa covering just over 57,000 square kilometers, marked its comeback to the Davis Cup in 2022 after a long 19-year hiatus from this prestigious tournament. As they strive for their inaugural entry into the World Group 1, team captain Agnamba Ali emphasizes that his players are eager to etch their names in history.
The best achievement for the country in the Davis Cup was reaching the Europe/Africa Zone Group II semifinals back in 1992. Now, the team is poised to take on India on their home ground, aiming to reach new heights for their nation.
In an exclusive interview with IANS just days before the match scheduled at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association Complex on February 1-2, captain Agnamba Ali shared insights into his team’s mindset, which has propelled them to the World Group 1 playoffs.
"We embrace being the underdogs because facing any country now means they need to be cautious. Over the last three years, we have proven our capability to win. For instance, when we played against Latvia at home, expectations were low, but I know the team is incredibly motivated. They aspire to make history for themselves and for Togo, that’s our driving force," Ali conveyed to IANS.
The squad includes Padio Isak, Thomas Setodji, Liova Ajavon, and M’lapa Akomlo, with Thomas holding the only ranking at 1256, having peaked at 794 in his career.
Togo climbed to the World Group I playoffs for the 2025 Davis Cup after a 3-2 victory over Indonesia in the 2024 World Group II playoffs, followed by a stunning 4-0 win against Latvia in their World Group II tie. Ali acknowledged the effort that has fostered a strong team spirit.
“Although Togo has been absent for 19 years, we previously reached Group 2. Togo has always had a strong lineup, and it’s great that the current team consists of the same players who initiated this journey. The camaraderie is excellent, and the players motivate each other. They are determined to win, and that’s what has placed us in this favorable position,” he concluded.
