Former player of the Republic of Benin national team, the Squirrel, Rasak Omotoyossi is dead, reports thegazellenews.com
News of his death broke out on Tuesday, 19 August, 2025.
As at the time of writing this report, the cause of his death has not been made public but thegazellenews.com can confirm that he died at the age of 38.
Born in Nigeria but choosing to represent Benin, Omotoyossi became one of the West African country’s greatest-ever players, scoring 21 goals in 55 international appearances.
He remains one of the nation’s all-time top scorers. His most iconic moment came during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers when he netted all four goals in Benin’s famous 4-1 win over Togo – a performance that made him joint-top scorer of the campaign alongside Samuel Eto’o.
At club level, Omotoyossi enjoyed success in Sweden with Helsingborgs IF, featuring in the UEFA Champions League, before moving to France with FC Metz.
His career also saw him play in South Africa, Libya, Egypt, Syria, and Moldova, where he was admired for his tireless work ethic and sharp eye for goal.
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Omotoyossi symbolised resilience, sacrifice, and loyalty.
By choosing Benin, he carried the nation’s footballing hopes with pride, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of young players.
Omotoyossi also played for Sunshine Stars of Akure in southwest Nigeria before an altercation with a match official during a league led to a suspension which altered his football life for the better.
He left Nigeria for the Republic of Benin and joined a premier League side in the country. His performance drew the attention of the national team selectors and he was first first invited to the Junior Squirrels where he led Benin to qualify for the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Holland.
Though, Benin did not get out of the group stage, Omotoyossi’s performance was enough for him get a contract from a Swedish club.
Subsequently, he was capped at full international level by Benin.
He was married to a popular Nigerian film actress, Bose Alao
