Why does Mohamed Soumaïla play for Niger?

Born in Niamey, Niger · Citizenship: Niger, Nigeria

Short answer

Mohamed Soumaïla plays for Niger because he holds Nigerien nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2012).

Birthplace and citizenship

Mohamed Soumaïla was born in Niger; holds Niger and Nigeria citizenship.

International career path

His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:

  • Niger — senior level, 2012–present

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.

Read our full guide to FIFA eligibility rules →

Frequently asked questions

Why does Mohamed Soumaïla play for Niger?

Mohamed Soumaïla holds Nigerien nationality and chose to represent Niger at senior level.

Where was Mohamed Soumaïla born?

Mohamed Soumaïla was born in Niamey, Niger.

What nationality is Mohamed Soumaïla?

Wikidata lists Mohamed Soumaïla as a citizen of Niger and Nigeria.