While traveling to the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Angola, the Togo national football team was ambushed by gunmen from a separatist faction, the Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda. This attack occurred in the Cabinda region, known for its long-standing conflict over independence from Angola. Civilians and players were on board the bus when they were fired upon. Three people lost their lives in the assault, and nine others were injured, prompting international outcry and concern for the safety of athletes in conflict zones. The ambush severely disrupted Togo's plans for participation in the tournament, and the team ultimately withdrew in response to the violence.The incident drew attention to the ongoing instability in Cabinda, a region rich in oil resources but beset by conflict. Despite years of relative peace, local separatist movements have persisted, and the attack on the Togolese team highlighted the precarious security situation. It became a poignant reminder of the interplay between sports and politics, as many athletes and teams faced growing scrutiny over competing in countries experiencing civil unrest. The team, shaken by the event, had to navigate not only the physical impact of the attack but also the psychological toll it took on the players and management as they processed the violent disruption to their preparations for a significant tournament.