Nigerian-Born Beninese Footballer Razak Omotoyossi D!es At 39

Nigerian-born Beninese international footballer, Razak Omotoyossi, has passed away at the age of 39.

His passing was confirmed on Tuesday, August 19, by authorities in Benin.

In response, his former club, Helsingborgs IF, posted on X: “Helsingborgs IF is in mourning.

“We have been informed that our former player Razak Omotoyossi has passed away at the age of 39. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”

Nigerian journalist Shina Oludare revealed that he reached out to the legend’s brother, who expressed grief over the tragic event.

Oludare shared on X: “Razak Omotoyossi’s brother tells me that the former Benin Republic legend had been battling depression and illness, which contributed to his passing… more details shortly…

“For context, he tragically lost his home to a fire in July, and just two weeks ago, his sister also.”

Omotoyossi, who changed his nationality to play for Benin after starting his career in the Nigerian league, became one of the nation’s most celebrated footballers.

He netted 21 goals in 55 international matches, placing him among Benin’s all-time leading scorers.

He is particularly remembered for his feats during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where he scored all four goals in Benin’s 4-1 triumph over Togo and ended as joint top scorer of the campaign alongside Samuel Eto’o.

He also achieved a historic milestone as the first player to score for Benin at the Africa Cup of Nations finals.

At the club level, Omotoyossi enjoyed a wide-ranging career across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, competing in South Africa, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Moldova, Sweden, and France.

He notably excelled for Helsingborgs IF in Sweden, participating in the UEFA Champions League, before transferring to the French club FC Metz.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli