Uncapped Rouga gets call-up to Benin's squad

January 13, 2008

COTONOU, Jan 13 (Reuters) - Benin have named uncapped Achille Rouga from Stade Rennes in their final 23-man squad for the African Nations Cup finals.

The 21-year-old Rouga, who has yet to play a first team match at the Ligue 1 outfit, was a late call-up to the Benin squad for the tournament, which starts in Ghana next Sunday.

Rouga's inclusion comes after his participation in a 10-day training camp in Brazil. His club said they thought he had gone to Benin for a vacation.

Benin's new coach, Reinhard Fabisch, named 12 players from European-based clubs in his selection.

Benin, competing in only their second Nations Cup finals appearance, meet Mali in their opening Group B game on Jan. 21.

Goalkeepers: Valere Amoussou (Mogas 90), Rachad Chitou (Wikki Tourists), Yoann Djidonou (Red Star)

Defenders: Abdul Adenon (ASEC Abidjan), Anicet Adjamossi (Creteil), Damien Chrystosome (Casale), Alain Gaspoz (FC Bagnes), Achille Rouga (Stade Rennes), Noel Seka (FC Fyn), Bio A Traor (Panthres Djougou)

Midfielders: Jocelyn Ahoueya (FC Sion), Romauld Boco (Accrington Stanley), Djiman Koukou (Soleil FC), Mouri Ogunbiyi (Etoile Sahel), Jonas Oketola (unattached), Stephane Sessegnon (Le Mans), Sosthne Soglo (Energie FC), Seidath Tchomogo (East Riffa)

Forwards: Abou Maiga (Creteil), Wassiou Oladipikpo (JS Kabylie), Razak Omotoyossi (Helsingborg), Abdoulaye Ouzrou (Al Jazeera), Oumar Tchomogo (Portimonense).