Why does Nouhoum Kobéna play for Benin?
Born in Parakou, Benin · Citizenship: Benin, Mali
Short answer
Nouhoum Kobéna plays for Benin because he holds Beninese nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2006).
Birthplace and citizenship
Nouhoum Kobéna was born in Benin; holds Benin and Mali citizenship.
International career path
His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:
- Benin — senior level, 2006–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.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Nouhoum Kobéna play for Benin?
Nouhoum Kobéna holds Beninese nationality and chose to represent Benin at senior level.
Where was Nouhoum Kobéna born?
Nouhoum Kobéna was born in Parakou, Benin.
What nationality is Nouhoum Kobéna?
Wikidata lists Nouhoum Kobéna as a citizen of Benin and Mali.