Omar Tchomogo Reappointed as Benin Coach Amid National Football Turmoil
Benin’s football landscape faces renewed uncertainty as Omar Tchomogo has been reappointed head coach of the national team, just over two weeks before the start of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The former Beninese international was named coach on Wednesday by the country’s Ministry of Sports, amid a governance crisis that has left the Beninese Football Federation (FBF) in disarray. The federation has been effectively suspended, with its official authorization revoked by the state, prompting accusations of political interference.
FIFA has expressed concern over the situation, sending its envoy Primo Corvaro to Benin in a bid to resolve the impasse. However, the visit failed to bring clarity, leaving the federation’s future in doubt.
Amid the turmoil, the FBF last week informed the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of Benin’s withdrawal from the 2017 AFCON qualifiers due to inadequate preparation. The Ministry of Sports, which has since established a Local Football Management Committee, has rejected this decision.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Tchomogo, who previously served as interim coach in 2013 following the departure of Frenchman Manuel Amoros, was officially appointed to lead the Squirrels. He will be supported by General Manager Alain Djaffo and French physical coach Nicolas Rouver.
The squad list for the upcoming qualifier against Equatorial Guinea is expected soon, though the uncertainty surrounding Benin’s participation remains. The federation is awaiting a final ruling from CAF on its withdrawal request.
As the AFCON qualifiers approach, Benin’s football stakeholders face a critical juncture. The resolution of administrative disputes will be vital to ensuring the national team can compete on the continental stage without further disruption.
