One of the greatest players Nigeria ever produced, Rashidi Yekini, is dead. The two-time African Footballer of the Year died this evening in Kwara after a prolonged illness.
He was just 48 years old. Yekini was Nigeria’s national team highest/record goal scorer, scoring 37 goals in 58 appearances. He scored Nigeria's first goal in a FIFA World Cup.
According to Wikipedia, Yekini was born in Kaduna. After starting his professional career in the Nigerian league, he moved to Côte d’Ivoire to play for Africa Sports National.From there he went to Portugal and Vitória de Setúbal, where he experienced his most memorable years, eventually becoming the Portuguese first division’s top scorer, in 1993–94, as his performances (32 matches, 34 goals) earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year in 1993, the first ever from the nation.
In a condolence message signed by Abdulwahab Oba, CPS to the Kwara State Governor, on behalf of the governor, said, “Government received with great shock and disbelief the sudden and untimely death of one of the finest and dedicated football players Nigeria has ever produced, Rasheed Yekini.
“During his active days, the late Yekini demonstrated uncommon skills on the field of play and commitment to the Nigeria project that he was known not only in Nigeria but across the African continent as a great footballer. He will surely be missed at a time when his experience is needed to move Nigeria football to the next level. On behalf of myself, my family and the good people of Kwara I condole with his family and the sporting world on this loss.”
The Nigerian Football Federation spokesman, Ademola Olajire expressed profound shock, stressing that it was the saddest football news of the year and the Glass House also sympathizes with his entire family.
Joe Erico in his reaction was short of words as he could not hold his grief . He said he would be remembered for his hard work and team spirit.
On his part, Christian Chukwu said he would remember him for his goal at the 1994 World Cup.
He’s survived by two children. So so sad. May his soul rest in peace
Joe Erico in his reaction was short of words as he could not hold his grief . He said he would be remembered for his hard work and team spirit.
On his part, Christian Chukwu said he would remember him for his goal at the 1994 World Cup.
He’s survived by two children. So so sad. May his soul rest in peace
Yekini was best point man Nigeria ever saw.. He was simply the greatest. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
ReplyDeleteMay his soul find rest in God's arms...
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