By Milcah Tanimu
On October 23, 2023, Google Doodle pays a heartfelt tribute to Rashidi Yekini, the iconic Nigerian footballer whose remarkable goal-scoring abilities earned him the nickname “Goalsfather.” Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, in 1963, Yekini’s life story is one of determination, resilience, and unparalleled talent.
From a challenging early life marked by homelessness and poverty, Yekini’s passion for football drove him to pursue his dreams. Starting as a welder and mechanic, he caught the attention of scouts and joined his first club, ‘UNTL FC,’ in Kaduna in 1981. His talent quickly became evident when he played for the Shooting Stars, where he scored an impressive 45 goals in 53 games.
In 1983, Yekini’s exceptional skills earned him the title of ‘African Footballer of the Year,’ making history as the first Nigerian player to achieve this prestigious honor. He played a pivotal role in leading the Shooting Stars to the finals of the African Champions Cup in the following year.
Yekini’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s national team, the ‘Super Eagles.’ He played a crucial part in their qualification for the 1994 World Cup. One moment that will forever be etched in football history is his iconic celebration: after scoring Nigeria’s first goal, he clutched the net with both arms and shed tears of joy, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
Continuing his illustrious football career for over 14 years with the Super Eagles, Yekini participated in the 1998 World Cup, leaving an indelible mark with a total of 37 goals in 58 games for Nigeria—a record for the most goals scored for the country.
Today, as we celebrate Rashidi Yekini’s 60th birthday, we honor not just a football legend but a symbol of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. His legacy lives on, inspiring generations of football enthusiasts and reminding us all of the transformative power of dedication and talent.
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