Benin Republic spring surprise as Serge Obassa, NPFL-based goalkeeper, earns call-up for World Cup qualifiers
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has named a surprise inclusion in his 25-man squad for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches; a fixture that includes a high-stakes clash against his former team, Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The standout name from Rohr’s list is Serge Obassa, the first-choice goalkeeper for Remo Stars, one of the top clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Obassa’s selection has turned heads in both Benin and Nigeria, especially given that he plies his trade in the Nigerian domestic league and is relatively unknown on the international scene.
Rohr, who once managed the Super Eagles and led them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, appears to be casting his net wide in a bid to bolster Benin’s squad. The decision to include Obassa alongside more established names like Saturnin Allagbé and Marcel Dandjinou is being viewed as both bold and strategic.
Obassa, although yet to feature internationally, has been in strong form for Remo Stars and has caught the eye with his reflexes and consistency. His call-up is a huge endorsement of the growing quality in the NPFL and serves as proof that African national teams are increasingly recognising talent across the continent’s local leagues, not just in Europe.
The 25-man Benin squad also features familiar names such as Steve Mounié, Junior Olaitan, Jodel Dossou, and Tosin Aiyegun. In defence, Rohr has stuck with a strong core including Olivier Verdon, Cedric Hountondji, and Mohamed Tjani. The team will face Rwanda away before travelling to Uyo to take on Nigeria; a match loaded with subplots, especially with Rohr’s personal history with the Super Eagles.
Obassa’s inclusion has ignited debate across Nigerian football circles. For some, it’s a proud moment – proof that the NPFL is producing talent worthy of international recognition. For others, it’s a moment of reflection: how did a home-based Nigerian goalkeeper end up in a rival squad when the Super Eagles are often criticised for overlooking domestic league stars?
Rohr, in his typical straightforward manner, has defended his selection. “We watch a lot of matches across Africa, and Serge has impressed consistently,” the Franco-German tactician told journalists during the squad unveiling. “He deserves this chance.”
For Remo Stars, this is a massive milestone. Having one of their own represent a national team on the World Cup qualification stage elevates the club’s profile and showcases the quality of talent emerging from the Nigerian league system.
It remains to be seen whether Obassa will start or serve as backup during the qualifiers, but if he does get a chance; especially in the match against Nigeria, the spotlight will be firmly on him. Either way, the narrative is compelling: a home-based NPFL goalkeeper, called up by Rohr, possibly facing the country where he plays his club football, in a match that could shape the future of both nations’ World Cup hopes. Benin will first face Rwanda on October 10 before squaring up against Nigeria in Uyo on October 14.
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