Why does Serge Akakpo play for Togo?
Born in Ogou, Togo · Citizenship: Benin, France, Togo
Short answer
Serge Akakpo plays for Togo because he holds Togolese nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2008).
Birthplace and citizenship
Serge Akakpo was born in Togo; holds Benin, France and Togo citizenship.
International career path
His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:
He only played youth football for France U17 and France U19. Youth caps do not tie a player to a country, so he was free to choose Togo for senior football.
- France U17 — under-17 level, 2005–2006 (2 matches, 0 goals)
- France U19 — under-19 level, 2006–2007 (5 matches, 0 goals)
- Togo — senior level, 2008–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 Serge Akakpo play for Togo?
Serge Akakpo holds Togolese nationality and chose to represent Togo at senior level.
Where was Serge Akakpo born?
Serge Akakpo was born in Ogou, Togo.
What nationality is Serge Akakpo?
Wikidata lists Serge Akakpo as a citizen of Benin, France and Togo.