Razack Omotoyossi: "No chance of Benin qualifying for the World Cup unless..."

Sport News Africa: Benin failed to qualify for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire. How do you explain this fresh disappointment?

Razack Omotoyossi: We failed to do the right thing, we no longer know where we come from. We have forgotten our past, our heroes and the people who were there for Beninese football for more than fifty years.

Since 2019, when Benin reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, the team has been in decline. In your view, what are the reasons for these repeated failures?

Razack Omotoyossi: Honestly, we have not managed to move on from Egypt 2019. It is still in people's minds and we have not managed to aim higher. The only solution, in particular, is to go back to the drawing board with the right people and the right inspiration.

What do you make of the rejuvenation of the squad by Gernot Rohr, with very young players in the senior team?

Razack Omotoyossi: I don't know much about the coach. But calling up young players to the team is a good idea. However, is he picking the best players? Is he giving them the mental support they need to play? Of course, it takes a certain amount of time to build a team.

Benin are in Group C of the 2016 World Cup qualifiers, alongside Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Lesotho. What chance do the Cheetahs have?

Razack Omotoyossi: I don't see any chance of qualification if the people involved don't change. From the coach and the team captain to the Beninese Football Federation, and including the ministry. We must promote good football.

 

"I want support from the government and the federation so that I can bring back a few former players to promote football for 17-23 year-olds"

 

What is your view of Benin's professional league?

Razack Omotoyossi: We really do have good players. The Head of State has invested enormously, with incredible facilities for the players. Every club needs a good leader to look after the players so that they give their best on the pitch.

So how do you develop the Benin league?

Razack Omotoyossi: To attract more fans and sponsors, we have to work harder to actually reach the objectives. We need good players, trained referees and some of the best coaches in the country in order to attract more sponsors in the near future.

Benin's representatives in African competitions have not been succeeding for years. How can the trend be reversed?

Razack Omotoyossi: First of all you need a good club, a very competitive team, financial resources. Clubs and players who are extremely committed and good, even better than Zamalek or anyone else.

What is Razack Omotoyossi doing now?

Razack Omotoyossi plans to become an icon to open up a new path for Beninese football. And also Jeunesse Sportive de Pobè FC. To be honest, I want to obtain confirmation and support from the government and the federation so that I can bring back a few former players to promote football for 17-23 year-olds.

Your best memories on the pitch?

Razack Omotoyossi: The most memorable experience was playing and running on the pitch in yellow and green. Then, playing for Zamalek in Egypt and moving to France. When I was at Helsingborg in Norway, I won the "League's top scorer" title and the Europa Cup.

Rachidi DOSSA