Benin coach Gernot Rohr impressed by 16-year-old Parfait Faton

Gernot Rohr has praised 16-year-old Parfait Faton after the midfielder made a strong early impression in Benin’s training camp ahead of their decisive Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying double-header against the Central African Republic.

The two matches, which count as the third and fourth rounds of the qualifiers, will provide Faton with an opportunity to stake his claim at international level after quickly showing confidence and technical ability in the squad’s opening sessions.

Despite his age, the midfielder has appeared comfortable alongside the senior players. His performances have caught the attention of both Rohr, the Franco-German coach, and his team-mates.

Rohr said Faton had adapted particularly well to the professional group and had not been overawed by the occasion.

“I saw that the young Parfait Faton is holding his own. He is not lost at all among the older players; on the contrary. He is not shy and he has also shown all his talent in training,” Rohr said.

The manager’s comments represent a significant show of confidence in Faton, who is seeking to establish himself with Benin on a long-term basis.