Beninese Football Mourns the Loss of Razak Omotoyossi, A Servant of the Sport
The football community in Benin is in mourning following the passing of former international player Razak Omotoyossi, who died at the age of 39 in neighboring Nigeria. Omotoyossi, a prolific striker, was eulogized by his former teammates as “a servant of Beninese football” in recognition of his dedication and contributions to the sport.
Throughout his 12-year career with the Benin national team, Omotoyossi made over 40 appearances, scoring 21 goals in 47 matches between 2004 and 2016. He was an integral part of the team that participated in the 2008 and 2010 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments. His impressive goal-scoring record earned him a place among the top scorers in Beninese football history, alongside notable players like Stéphane Sessègnon and Steve Mounié.
Omotoyossi’s professional career took him to various countries, including Moldova, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, and France, where he played for French club FC Metz. In a statement, the club offered its condolences to Omotoyossi’s family and friends, highlighting his significant contributions to the team.
Sadly, Omotoyossi had been experiencing financial difficulties in recent times, which led him to appeal for help on social media. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many former athletes, particularly those who have dedicated their lives to the sport.
As the football community in Benin and beyond mourns the loss of Razak Omotoyossi, his legacy as a devoted servant of the sport will be remembered. His contributions to Beninese football will continue to inspire future generations of players, and his memory will live on as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the beautiful game.
