Former Ghana youth star Salifu Ibrahim earns maiden Benin call-up after nationality switch

Former Ghana youth midfielder Ibrahim Salifu has earned his maiden call-up to the Benin senior national team, sealing a new chapter in his international journey.

The 25-year-old, now on the books of Kosovan side FC Drita, has been named in Gernot Rohr’s squad for a friendly against Burkina Faso later this month, following his decision to switch allegiance from Ghana.

Salifu, who was born and developed his football in Ghana, rose to prominence in the domestic league with Eleven Wonders before joining Premier League giants Hearts of Oak in 2021.

He quickly became a key figure in Accra, helping the Phobians to a league and FA Cup double in his debut season.

Since leaving the Ghanaian topflight, the midfielder has continued to impress abroad, contributing to FC Drita’s recent domestic successes in Kosovo.

Squad below:

Benin, who have booked their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, will compete in Group D alongside DR Congo, Senegal and Botswana.