Former Benin international striker Razak Omotoyossi has been eulogised by his ex-teammates as “a servant of Beninese football” following his passing at the age of 39 in neighboring Nigeria, where he had been living.
Omotoyossi featured for the Squirrels more than forty times over twelve years, making his mark as one of the most prolific scorers in the country’s football history. He netted 21 goals in 47 appearances between 2004 and 2016, placing him alongside Stéphane Sessègnon and Steve Mounié as Benin’s finest finishers.
The forward represented his nation at the 2008 and 2010 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, earning admiration for his commitment and decisive goals.
At club level, his career was equally diverse, spanning Moldova, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, and France, where he turned out for Ligue 1 side FC Metz. The French club expressed its condolences in a statement, extending sympathy to Omotoyossi’s family and friends.
Reports suggest the player had been facing financial difficulties and had recently made appeals for assistance on social media.
His death marks the end of a storied career that left an indelible imprint on Beninese football and inspired a generation of players.