Bisina SomtoGoogle Doodle marked the 60th birthday of the legendary Nigerian footballer Rashidi Yekini, popularly known as the “Goalsfather” for his remarkable ability to outwit goalkeepers. Born on October 23, 1963, in Kaduna, Nigeria, Yekini’s life journey is a testament to perseverance and passion.
Yekini’s early years were marred by homelessness and poverty. To make ends meet, he toiled as a welder and mechanic. However, his heart was set on a career in professional football, and he soon caught the eye of scouts with his prodigious talent.
In 1981, Yekini’s football journey commenced when he joined ‘UNTL FC’ in Kaduna. He subsequently played for the Shooting Stars and left a mark by scoring a remarkable 37 goals in just 53 games.
His exceptional scoring prowess didn’t go unnoticed as in 1983, Yekini was bestowed with the title of ‘African Footballer of the Year,’ becoming the first Nigerian player to receive this prestigious award. The following year, he played a pivotal role in propelling the Shooting Stars to the finals of the African Champions Cup, further solidifying his status as a football icon.
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Beyond his homeland, Yekini’s career spanned across various countries, including Spain, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Greece, Portugal, and Switzerland. During the 1993-94 season, he etched his name in history by winning the Bola de Prata (Silver Ball) for being the top-scoring player in the league while representing a Portuguese team, Vitória Setúbal.
One of the crowning moments of Yekini’s illustrious career came when he helped Nigeria’s national team, the ‘Super Eagles,’ qualify for the 1994 World Cup. During the tournament, he etched his name in history by scoring Nigeria’s first goal, a moment celebrated with unbridled joy as he clutched the net with both arms and shed tears of pride. This iconic goal celebration is still etched in the annals of football history.
Yekini’s unwavering dedication saw him continue playing for the Super Eagles for over 14 years, including another World Cup appearance in 1998. His international career yielded an impressive 37 goals in 58 games, a record that still stands as the highest number of goals scored for Nigeria.
Rashidi Yekini’s journey from adversity to football stardom serves as an inspiring testament to the power of determination and talent. On his 60th birthday, the world remembers the Goalsfather, a true football legend whose legacy endures in the hearts of fans, both in Nigeria and beyond.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
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