Benin legend Razak Omotoyossi has been confirmed dead at the age of 38, sending shockwaves across African football.
The former Metz and Helsingborg striker passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in his home country, though the cause of death has not yet been made public.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Omotoyossi chose to represent Benin at the international level, becoming one of the nation’s most prolific players. He scored 21 goals in 55 appearances for the Squirrels, a tally that cemented his status as one of Benin’s all-time greats.
His exploits made him a household name in Ghana during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, where, despite Benin failing to win any of their group matches, he found the net and showcased his talent on a big stage.
Omotoyossi began his professional career in Nigeria with Sunshine Stars before moving to Benin to feature for Avrankou Omnispor and Jeunesse Athlétique du Cotonou. His first taste of European football came in 2005 with Moldovan champions Sheriff Tiraspol.
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A year later, he moved to Sweden’s Helsingborg, where he enjoyed a prolific spell, finishing as the league’s top scorer.
The forward’s career saw him travel widely, including stints in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, France with Metz, and a return to Sweden with GAIS and Syrianska.
He later represented Egyptian giants Zamalek, Turkish side Kahramanmaraşspor, as well as Moroccan clubs Kenitra Athletic and Olympic Club de Safi.
At youth level, Omotoyossi featured for Benin’s U20 team at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands, before going on to lead the senior side for over a decade.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that inspired a generation of Beninese footballers and endeared him to fans across the continent.
FKA/MA
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