Questions have come up about whether Roman Ferber’s allowed to play for Madagascar in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria on Friday.
The Belgian-born striker got his chance to play for Madagascar’s national team after he became a citizen of Madagascar through marriage.
Ferber has been doing well since he joined the Luxembourg club FC Atert Bissen. He has scored 35 goals. Helped his team 13 times in 37 games in all competitions.
The 33-year-old said his wife was very important in helping him connect with the Malagasy Football Federation. “I got married on January 8th and it was through my wife that everything became possible ” Ferber said to Le Soir. He said he was first chosen for a list before getting the final call-up.
Getting a new nationality does not automatically mean a player can play for a national team according to FIFA rules. Players who do not have family roots in the country can still become eligible if they live there for least five years after their 18th birthday. This is under FIFA rules. Requires proper approval.
Ferber was born in Belgium. It is said he does not have any parents or grandparents from Madagascar. So his ability to play for Madagascar depends on whether he meets FIFAs rules, about living in the country and has the approval. This issue is happening just before Madagascar plays Nigeria in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
