Reports from Benin Republic have confirmed the passing of former Beninese international striker Razak Omotoyossi. He died on Tuesday morning at the age of 38.
As of now, the cause of death remains unclear, with Beninese football authorities expected to issue an official statement in the coming days.
Omotoyossi began his career in Nigeria before switching nationality to represent Benin Republic, where he quickly established himself as one of the country’s greatest-ever forwards.
The prolific striker enjoyed an illustrious club career with stints in South Africa, Libya, Syria, Moldova, Sweden, and France, earning a reputation for his goalscoring instincts.
He made history as the first player to score for Benin Republic at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and is fondly remembered for his heroics during the 2008 AFCON qualifiers, when he scored all four goals in Benin’s 4–1 victory over Togo, finishing the campaign as joint top scorer.
Omotoyossi’s passing is a devastating blow to Beninese football and African football at large, as he remains one of the most iconic players to have worn the Squirrels’ jersey.
