Razak Omotoyossi’s Candid Reason for Choosing Benin Over Nigeria Before His Passing
- Razak Omotoyossi once opened up on his reasons for choosing to play for the Benin Republic over Nigeria
- The former striker said he had a lifelong dream to emulate Nigerian football legends like Rashidi Yekini and Daniel Amokachi
- In a 2020 interview with Legit.ng, he expressed that despite his aspirations to wear Nigeria’s green-white-green, destiny saw him play for Benin
Former striker Razak Omotoyossi once detailed why he opted to play for the Benin Republic over Nigeria, his country of birth.
Razak Omotoyossi had previously opened up about his decision to play for the Cheetahs ahead of the Super Eagles before his passing on August 19, 2025.
He explained that he had hoped to play for Nigeria, saying he was inspired by the likes of Rashidi Yekini and Daniel Amokachi.
Source: Getty Images
However, things did not play out how he wanted; he stated that he never regretted his decision to switch to Benin.
Speaking with Legit.ng in 2020, He said:
"I always wished to wear the green-white-green. Watching Rashidi Yekini, my lovely player. I was wishing to be someone like Daniel Amokachi.
"But if your destiny says you won't be there, you won't be there. But I never regretted my decision."
Omotoyossi was known for his prolific goal-scoring ability during his active days, making 55 international appearances and registering 21 goals for the national team, per Daily Post.
He went on to play for clubs in France, Sweden, and Saudi Arabia, among others.
The former Metz of France striker said playing for Benin was a turning point in his footballing career, attributing the move to destiny.
He added:
"For me, it's good luck. For me, it's hard work. For me, it's another journey, so I can call it in different ways. All I know is I took a step into another journey, to another way of life. If one tries to neglect you, you have to move on.
"I am still the top scorer in the team. I'm happy for the support I get from fans. I'm happy that my name is being mentioned as the country wants to build a new stadium.
"I never regretted taking that step (choosing Benin over Nigeria). I knew if I had played for Nigeria, maybe I would have achieved something greater. One thing is for sure, what will be will be."
The former Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia striker died at the age of 39, having battled depression in recent times.
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.
Source: Getty Images
Taye Taiwo pays tributes to Omotoyossi
Legit.ng earlier reported that Super Eagles legend Taye Taiwo has shared an emotional tribute to the late Omotoyossi.
Taiwo shared an emotional message via his Instagram page as he mourned the former striker.
Source: Legit.ng
