The top figures of Beninese football were honored this Sunday at the annual “Benin Football Awards”, an event that celebrated the country’s most outstanding players, coaches, and contributors to the sport. The ceremony recognized achievements across multiple levels, from domestic leagues to international representation.
Nabil Yarou, captain of Buffalos, was named the Best Player of the Season, reflecting his influence and leadership on the pitch. The Minister of Sports, Oswald Homéky, was also honored for his contributions to the development of football in Benin.
Key Awards and Winners:
Domestic League Honors
- Top Ligue 1 Teams:
- Buffalos – 10 million FCFA
- Béké FC – 5 million FCFA
- AS Tonnerre – 3 million FCFA
- Top Scorers in Vitalor Ligue 1:
- Sacca Mouhammed (Béké) – 14 goals
- Idrissou Saliou (Panthères FC) – 14 goals
Both players received 1 million FCFA each.
- Ligue 2 Champion Team: Dynamo de Parakou – 5 million FCFA
- Top Scorer in Ligue 2: Henry Ekemezie Uche (Espoir FC) – 1 million FCFA
Coaching Awards
- Best Ligue 1 Coach: Stanislas Akélé (Tonnerre FC of Bohicon) – 1 million FCFA
- Best Ligue 2 Coach: Patrick Agbegninou (Réal Sport de Parakou)
Women’s Football
- Best Women’s Team: Jeunesse Sportive de la Vallée – 2 million FCFA
International Recognition
- Best Beninese Player Abroad: Olivier Verdon
Honorary Trophies
The Beninese Football Federation also presented special recognition awards to individuals for their contributions both on and off the field:
- Stéphane Sessegnon – lifetime achievement in football
- Michel Dussuyer – Best coach of the Squirrels (Benin national team)
- Jean-Marc Adjovi Boco – service to the nation through grassroots football development
- Romuald Wadagni – service to the nation
- Oswald Homéky – service to the nation, acknowledged for his availability and leadership
The Benin Football Awards highlighted the successes of domestic and international players, while also recognizing coaches and officials who have played a pivotal role in the development of football in Benin. The event not only celebrated athletic excellence but also the broader contributions of those who support the sport in the country.
It was a festive occasion, bringing together fans, players, and officials to honor the past season and inspire continued growth in Beninese football.
