Benin manager Gernot Rohr has praised 16-year-old midfielder Parfait Faton after the teenager made a strong early impression in training ahead of the decisive Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying matches against Central African Republic.
Benin face Central African Republic in a double-header for the third and fourth rounds of qualification, with Faton included in the squad despite his age.
The promising midfielder quickly caught the attention of Rohr and his team-mates during the group’s first training sessions. Faton’s confidence and technical ability stood out as he adapted to the senior environment.
Rohr said the youngster had shown he was capable of competing alongside more experienced players and had not been overawed by the occasion.
“I saw that young Parfait Faton is holding his own. He is not at all lost among the senior players; quite the opposite,” Rohr said.
“He is not shy and he has also shown all his talent in training.”
The comments represent a significant vote of confidence in Faton as he looks to establish himself with Benin.
