Razak Omotoyossi: Former Benin International with Nigerian Roots Dies Aged 39
- Former Benin international Razak Omotoyossi has been reported dead at the age of 39
- His football journey saw him ply his trade in Saudi Arabia, France, Syria, Moldova and a host of other countries
- Tributes have been pouring in across social media and beyond since news of his demise broke
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The African football landscape has been struck by the heartbreaking news of Razak Omotoyossi’s passing.
The former Benin international and one of West Africa’s most prolific strikers died at the age of 39 on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
Razak Omotoyossi dies at age 39
Omotoyossi is renowned for his killer instinct in front of goal and fearless style of play.
At the time of this report, the exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, with an official statement expected from the Beninese football authorities.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Omotoyossi made a bold decision early in his career to pledge allegiance to Benin, a choice that went on to shape his football journey.
That commitment paid off as he became a prolific forward for the Squirrels, netting 21 goals in 55 appearances, per National Football Teams.
This tally places him among the nation’s greatest ever strikers and one of their all-time top scorers.
Razak Omotoyossi's football legacy at the national team and club level
He made history as the first player to score for the Benin Republic at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite the Squirrels ending up on the losing side (4-1 loss to Ivory Coast), his strike at the Essipong Stadium etched his name in the annals of Beninese football history.
That heroic display not only brought pride to his adopted nation but also saw him finish the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign as joint second top scorer alongside Samuel Eto’o, according to Ghanasoccernet.
Omotoyossi’s club career was as adventurous as it was inspiring. He rose to prominence in Sweden with Helsingborgs IF, where his performances in the UEFA Champions League drew attention across Europe.
His move to France with FC Metz further cemented his reputation as a dangerous forward.
Source: Getty Images
Over the years, he went on to play in several countries, including South Africa, Libya, Egypt, Syria, and Moldova.
In 2008, he had a brief spell with Saudi side Al-Nassr, long before Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival and the global spotlight that now follows the Saudi Pro League.
During that stint, he featured in nine games, scoring four goals in the 2008/09 season as Al-Nassr secured a 5th-place finish.
His passing leaves a void, yet his journey continues to shine as a beacon of hope.
In the wake of Razak's death, tributes have flooded social media. YEN.com.gh has gathered some reactions from X:
@bayonlearashi prayed:
"What a bad news. May God forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest."
@SegunEwuosho lamented:
"Ahhh... rest in power, legend! Gone too soon."
@Eronsli shared a personal memory:
"Wow so sad. I know this guy in Agege then."
@Adexzy98 mourned:
"Ahhhh. This life, sha. RIP baller."
@XceptionalDAViD recalled:
"Haaaaaaaaaa!!! Remember this dude played against Nigeria at the African Cup of Nations that year. RIP 🕊️"
@AMGistelrooy summed it up in disbelief:
"NO WAY!!! 😳 💔"
Razak's death follows just four months after the tragic loss of Gabonese forward Aaron Boupendza, who passed away in China.
The 28-year-old striker reportedly fell from the 11th floor of his apartment building on April 16, 2025.
Fans recall legendary AFCON moments
In the hours following his passing, football lovers from across Africa began sharing clips of Razak Omotoyossi’s unforgettable performances at the 2008 AFCON.
Many remembered his fearless runs against top defenders and the passion he showed every time he wore the Benin jersey.
Supporters pointed out that although his country didn’t win major tournaments, his determination and hunger made him a national hero and an inspiration for younger players who still dream of representing the Squirrels one day. Some fans also recalled how he celebrated every goal with genuine joy, often running towards the crowd with open arms.
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Zimbabwean striker dies after prolonged illness
In a related development, YEN.com.gh earlier reported that former Zimbabwean and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro has passed away at the age of 40.
Ndoro died on Monday, August 18, 2025, after a prolonged battle with illness.
He was found lifeless in his South African apartment, with reports indicating that he had been struggling with diabetes since 2021.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
