Razak Omotoyossi: Sad Cause of Death of Former Player of Nigerian Origin Emerges

• Razak Omotoyossi has tragically passed away at age 39, leaving the football world in deep mourning
• Born in Nigeria, the forward switched allegiance to the Benin Republic and registered 21 goals in 55 appearances
• It was gathered that he battled depression recently, compounded by personal tragedies, including the loss of his sister

The football world is reeling from the tragic loss of Benin Republic legend Razak Omotoyossi, who passed away on Tuesday morning, August 19, 2025, at the age of 39.

Born in Nigeria, Omotoyossi, who switched allegiance to play for the Cheetahs, left indelible footprints in African football.

Affectionately known as "Omogoal", the former forward scored 21 goals in 55 appearances for Benin, making him the nation’s all-time top scorer.

His brace in a 4-1 victory over Togo during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers remains a highlight of his career, per PM News.

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Former African footballer of Nigerian origin tragically dies at 39

It was gathered that the former Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia striker died having battled depression in recent times.

Nigerian journalist Shina Oludare disclosed that he made efforts to reach out to the legend's brother, who lamented the unfortunate incident.

Oludare wrote 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."

The footballer’s struggles were compounded by devastating personal losses. In July 2025, Omotoyossi’s home was ravaged by a fire, a tragedy that shook him deeply.

Just three weeks before his death, his sister also passed away, adding to his emotional burden.

Playing for clubs like FC Metz, Helsingborgs IF, and Zamalek, he showcased his talent across Nigeria, Sweden, France, Egypt, and beyond.

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Tributes pour in for Razak Omotoyossi

Meanwhile, the football world has continued to pay tributes to the football star. His former club, Metz FC, posted a picture of their ex-player via the official X handle @FCMetz, with the caption:

"FC Metz has learned with deep emotion of the passing of Razak Omotoyossi, who died at the age of 39. The club wishes to express its most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones."

@ojbsports wrote:

"A gifted goalscorer and passionate servant of the game, his impact on African football will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, champion."

@oluwashina said:

"Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Razak Omotoyossi. My thoughts are with his family (especially wife Bose Alao Omotoyossi & his children) friends and former teammates at this terribly sad time.Top guy, fantastic footballer who’s been through a lot since 2015."

_nuhuadams added:

"SAD NEWS. Benin 🇧🇯 legendary striker Razak Omotoyossi has been reported dead in his home country. The 38-year-old passed away this morning.

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"He scored 21 times in 55 appearances for the Benin national team."

How Omotoyossi reacted to Benin's loss to Nigeria

Legit.ng earlier reported that Omotoyossi was in the stands when the Cheetahs lost to Nigeria in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Super Eagles proved too strong for their neighbours, winning the encounter 3-0 inside the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng