Why does Souleymane Dela Sacko play for Niger?

Born in Niamey, Niger · Citizenship: Mali, Niger

Short answer

Souleymane Dela Sacko plays for Niger because he holds Nigerien nationality and chose to represent the country at senior level (first senior call-up on record: 2007).

Birthplace and citizenship

Souleymane Dela Sacko was born in Niger; holds Mali and Niger citizenship.

International career path

His international pathway, as recorded on Wikidata:

  • Niger — senior level, 2007–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 Souleymane Dela Sacko play for Niger?

Souleymane Dela Sacko holds Nigerien nationality and chose to represent Niger at senior level.

Where was Souleymane Dela Sacko born?

Souleymane Dela Sacko was born in Niamey, Niger.

What nationality is Souleymane Dela Sacko?

Wikidata lists Souleymane Dela Sacko as a citizen of Mali and Niger.