Former Benin Republic international Mouritala Ogunbiyi has revealed why he chose to represent the Cheetahs over his country of birth, Nigeria, saying the decision was driven by opportunity, appreciation, and the chance to fulfil his international ambitions.
Speaking exclusively to Sports247 during the colourful appreciation ceremony held in honour of immediate past Nigeria Football Coaches Association (NFCA), Ogun State Chairman Chief Olaseinde Bankole (Zico) at the Oba Moshood Alani Oyede Mini Stadium, Joju, Sango-Ota, Ogunbiyi paid glowing tribute to the veteran coach for supporting him at a crucial stage of his career.
“I really appreciate Coach Zico because he supported my career when I needed it most,” Ogunbiyi said.
The event, organised by the Leventis Joju Area Sports Committee, brought together football stakeholders, former internationals, coaches, and administrators to celebrate Bankole’s immense contributions to grassroots football development.
Reflecting on his international career, Ogunbiyi admitted that missing out on the Super Eagles was one of football’s realities, insisting that circumstances and connections often determine opportunities at the highest level.
“It’s a long story. Connections affect some good players from achieving their dream of representing the Super Eagles. Benin Republic appreciated my talent and welcomed me as family,” he explained.
The former midfielder traced his football journey from the grassroots in Ota, where he began his career before joining Indomie FC and later moving to Benin Republic to pursue professional football.
Ogunbiyi enjoyed a distinguished career, representing clubs including Enyimba FC, Étoile du Sahel, Guingamp, Nîmes, Paris FC, and USS Krake, winning trophies at virtually every club he played for.
“One unique thing about my career is that I won laurels with every club I represented,” he proudly stated.
The creative midfielder earned 47 international caps and scored six goals for Benin Republic between 1998 and 2019. He was also a member of the Benin squad that featured at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations, facing Nigeria during the tournament.
Asked where his loyalty would lie if Nigeria met Benin Republic in an AFCON final, Ogunbiyi gave an emphatic response.
“It will surely be Benin Republic. I played in three AFCON tournaments and faced Nigeria, even though we lost. My heart belongs to the Dahomey.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the love he received throughout his international career.
“I was loved for my creativity in Benin Republic, and the name Mouritala Ogunbiyi became everyone’s favourite.”
Ogunbiyi’s story remains a powerful reminder of how opportunity, recognition, and belief can shape the international careers of African footballers.
