How Nigeria’s first World Cup scorer left a legacy for the Super Eagles
Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s all-time leading goal scorer and one of Africa’s most feared forwards, would have turned 62 today. The late Super Eagles legend remains etched in history for his unforgettable goal celebration at the 1994 World Cup; a moment that continues to define Nigerian football pride across generations.
Early Life and Rise
Born on 23 October 1963 in Kaduna, Yekini began his football journey balancing work as a welder and mechanic while chasing his passion. His first professional club was UNTL Kaduna in 1981, followed by stints with Shooting Stars and Abiola Babes. From Nigeria, he moved to Ivory Coast and then Europe, making a name for himself on the international stage.
National Team Legend
Yekini remains Nigeria’s all-time top scorer, netting 37 goals in 62 appearances for the Super Eagles. His defining moment came at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the USA, where he scored Nigeria’s first-ever goal in a World Cup finals match against Bulgaria. The emotional celebration clutching the net with tears in his eyes became one of football’s most iconic images.
He was also instrumental in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, further cementing his legacy as one of the nation’s football greats.
Club Career Highlights
Yekini enjoyed success across Africa and Europe, with a standout period at Portuguese side Vitória de Setúbal. His goal-scoring prowess earned him the African Footballer of the Year award in 1993, making him the first Nigerian to achieve the honour.
Legacy and Memory
Yekini passed away on 4 May 2012 in Ibadan at the age of 48. Despite his early departure, his influence continues to inspire Nigerian footballers at home and abroad. In 2023, Google celebrated his 60th birthday with a special Doodle, highlighting his enduring impact on the global stage. Additionally, the Nigerian government posthumously honoured him with the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) award for his contributions to the sport.
Why His Birthday Matters
For Hot Sports Scoops, Rashidi Yekini’s birthday is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a celebration of Nigeria’s footballing history. His story shows that talent, hard work, and passion can rise from modest beginnings to global recognition. From the streets of Kaduna to World Cup glory, Yekini’s journey continues to inspire the next generation of Nigerian athletes.
As we mark his 62nd birthday, we remember the goals, the celebrations, and the man who helped put Nigerian football on the world map. Rashidi Yekini may be gone, but his legacy remains loud, proud, and goal-filled. Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for exclusive Nigerian-focused sports coverage — home and abroad