Why does Jean-Paul Abalo play for Togo?
Born in Lomé, Togo · Citizenship: France, Togo
Short answer
Jean-Paul Abalo plays for Togo because he holds Togolese nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 1992).
Birthplace and citizenship
Jean-Paul Abalo was born in Togo; holds France and Togo citizenship.
International career path
His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:
- Togo — senior level, 1992–2006 (67 matches, 1 goal)
The rules in brief
A player can represent a country if they hold its nationality and have a genuine link to it: birth on its territory, a parent or grandparent born there, or several years of residency. Youth matches do not tie a player to a country. Since 2020, FIFA also lets a player switch once after a small number of senior appearances (no more than three, all before turning 21, none at a World Cup or continental finals) after a three-year wait.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Jean-Paul Abalo play for Togo?
Jean-Paul Abalo holds Togolese nationality and chose to represent Togo at senior level.
Where was Jean-Paul Abalo born?
Jean-Paul Abalo was born in Lomé, Togo.
What nationality is Jean-Paul Abalo?
Wikidata lists Jean-Paul Abalo as a citizen of France and Togo.