Parfait Faton: who is the 16-year-old called up to Benin's Cheetahs?

12.11.26 15:00 AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Benin

-

:

Central African Republic

-

Parfait Faton is already discovering the demands of international football. At just 16, the Beninese midfielder has been called up to the Cheetahs for the first time by Gernot Rohr. The recognition rewards a journey built between Benin, Senegal and France.

A career shaped by several development experiences

Before joining the senior national team squad, Parfait Faton gained experience at several different training structures. He took his first steps at the Centre d’Excellence de N’Dali in Benin before continuing his development at the Diambars Academy in Senegal. His journey then took him to France, where he played with the youth teams of AAS Sarcelles. The player also reportedly had a trial at Paris FC, providing him with further experience of French football.

Parfait Faton has an interesting profile thanks to his ability to play in several positions. He can operate as a defensive, box-to-box or attacking midfielder, but can also fill in at full-back when his team needs him. He has also taken on responsibility with the youth national teams, having worn the captain’s armband for Benin’s U17 side. His performances at the U20 UFOA B tournament held in July also helped draw attention to his potential.

Gernot Rohr opens the door to the senior team

Faton’s first call-up to the Cheetahs represents a new step in his development. Head coach Gernot Rohr selected him for the two matches against the Central African Republic, scheduled for November 12 and 16, 2026.

At 16, he will notably have the opportunity to train and play alongside more experienced players such as Junior Olaitan and Tosin Ayegun. It remains to be seen how the young midfielder will adapt to the senior national team environment. In any case, this first experience could represent an important moment in the development of his career.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Benin

Central African Republic

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations