Razak Omotoyossi, the former international striker from Benin, has died at 39.

His passing was confirmed on Tuesday, by his former club in Sweden, Helsingborgs IF, where he had been a pivotal figure in the team’s offense.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Omotoyossi later switched his allegiance to Benin and became one of West Africa’s most notable football exports.

In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), the club paid tribute: “Helsingborgs IF is grieving. We have received news that our former player Razak Omotoyossi has died at 39 years old. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.”

Omotoyossi started his career in the Nigerian league but later changed nationality to play for Benin, eventually becoming one of the most renowned footballers in Beninese history.

He secured his status as one of Benin’s all-time top scorers by netting 21 goals in 55 international matches.

He is particularly remembered for his outstanding performance during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where he scored all four goals in Benin’s impressive 4-1 victory against Togo. He finished the campaign as the joint top scorer alongside Samuel Eto’o.

He made history by being the first player to score for Benin in the AFCON finals.

At the club level, Omotoyossi’s career spanned across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. He played in countries such as South Africa, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Moldova, Sweden, and France.

He experienced a notably successful stint with Helsingborgs IF, participating in the UEFA Champions League prior to his transfer to French club FC Metz.

Omotoyossi’s passing signifies the close of a chapter in Beninese football history, as tributes flood in from fans and former teammates who recall him as both a prolific striker and a pioneer for the sport.