The announcement of Togo’s squad for their two-match meeting with Algeria ended in disorder after Eperviers manager Patrice Neveu confronted the journalist who had questioned his ambitions with the national team.
Neveu had been asked about his objectives in charge of Togo during the press conference. He said his immediate priority was not to qualify for the next Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), but to rebuild the side.
As he continued his response, the manager said he believed the question was part of an attempt to destabilise him. The exchange created a tense atmosphere in the room, with Neveu visibly angered by the line of questioning.
The situation escalated after the official conclusion of the media briefing. Neveu moved towards the journalist who had asked the question, prompting members of his staff and several other reporters to intervene and prevent the two from coming together.
The intervention led to further tension inside the room before Neveu eventually left the venue.
The incident comes just days before the start of Togo’s training camp for their double-header against Algeria. The manager’s reaction adds another difficult episode to an important period for the national team, as the Eperviers prepare for the upcoming fixtures while Neveu focuses on rebuilding the squad rather than pursuing immediate qualification for the next CAN.