Ghanaian-born midfielder Ibrahim Salifu has revealed that his decision to choose Benin over the country of his birth is to honour his late father.
Salifu, who was born and raised in Ghana, represented Ghana at various youth levels, but switched to play for Benin ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Salifu’s father was from Benin, and he feels it’s an emotional moment for him and his family. “I am very happy to play for Benin, because my late father was also from Benin, so it is not difficult for me to change nationality,” he told 299 Foot. “It’s an emotional moment for me and my family. I know he would have been proud to see this day.”
Salifu, a former Hearts of Oak playmaker, is eager to make an impact with Benin and could be on Gernot Rohr’s list for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco if he impresses the German trainer.
“This is a new challenge and a big motivation for me. I’m coming with commitment, hard work, and a desire to help the team achieve success,” he said.
Benin have been drawn in Group D alongside DR Congo, Botswana, and Senegal. Salifu is ready to take on the challenge and make his debut for the Squirrels.