| Full Name | Rashidi Yekini |
|---|---|
| Rashidi Yekini Date of Birth | October 23, 1963 |
| Rashidi Yekini Place of Birth | Kaduna, Nigeria |
| Position | Forward |
| Rashidi Yekini Nationality | Nigerian |
| Rashidi Yekini net worth | $5 million |
| Rashidi Yekini age | 48 years old |
| Rashidi Yekini children |
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| Club Affiliation | Vitória de Setúbal, Olympiacos, Sporting de Gijón |
| International Caps | 62 Appearances for Nigeria |
| Rashidi Yekini Goals | 37 Goals (Nigeria’s All-Time Top Scorer) |
| Major Achievements | African Footballer of the Year (1993) Africa Cup of Nations Winner (1994) |
| World Cup Moments | Scored Nigeria’s First-Ever World Cup Goal (1994) |
| Olympic Participation | Seoul 1988 |
| Legacy | All-time Legend of Nigerian Football |
| Demise | May 4, 2012, Ibadan, Nigeria |
| Rashidi Yekini death | 48 Years |
| Burial Place | Ira, Kwara State, Nigeria |
Rashidi Yekini biography
Rashidi Yekini, born on October 23, 1963, in Kaduna, Nigeria, emerged as one of the most iconic figures in African football, etching his name in history as Nigeria’s all-time leading goalscorer. His journey to stardom began in the Nigerian league, where he showcased his innate talent and goal-scoring prowess.
Despite facing challenges in his early years, Yekini’s determination and passion for football fueled his rise. His professional career kicked off in Nigeria before taking him abroad to Ivory Coast, where he joined Africa Sports National. However, it was in Portugal, with Vitória de Setúbal, that Yekini experienced the pinnacle of his career. The 1993–94 season saw him achieve remarkable success by becoming the top scorer in the Primeira Liga, netting an impressive 21 goals.
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Rashidi Yekini’s club career was a fascinating journey that spanned several countries. After Portugal, he ventured to Greece, signing with Olympiacos in 1994. However, the move didn’t yield the expected success, and he soon departed. Yekini’s career took him to La Liga with Sporting de Gijón, FC Zürich, Club Athlétique Bizertin in Tunisia, and Al-Shabab Riyadh in Saudi Arabia before rejoining Africa Sports.
In 2003, at the age of 39, Yekini made a surprising return to the Nigerian championship with Julius Berger FC. His commitment to the sport was unparalleled, and in April 2005, at 41, he made a short-lived comeback, joining Gateway United FC alongside former national teammate Mobi Oparaku.
Rashidi Yekini career
Rashidi Yekini’s impact on Nigerian football extended beyond the club scene. He played a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ international success, particularly in major tournaments. Yekini represented Nigeria in seven major tournaments, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s football history.
His most significant contributions came during the FIFA World Cups in 1994 and 1998. In the 1994 World Cup held in the United States, Yekini scored Nigeria’s first-ever goal in the competition. His celebration, marked by tears while holding the goal’s net, became an iconic image of the tournament, capturing the raw emotion and historic significance of the moment.
In recognition of his outstanding performances, Yekini was honored as the African Footballer of the Year in 1993, marking a historic achievement as the first Nigerian to receive the prestigious award. His contributions weren’t confined to individual accolades; Yekini played a vital role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations held in Tunisia.
During the tournament, Yekini not only showcased his scoring prowess but also emerged as the top scorer, further solidifying his status as one of Africa’s football legends. His stellar performances were crucial to Nigeria’s success in securing the coveted trophy.
Beyond senior-level competitions, Yekini also participated in the 1988 Olympics held in Seoul. His dedication to representing Nigeria on the international stage showcased his commitment to the sport and his nation.
Rashidi Yekini’s legacy transcends statistics and achievements. His impact on Nigerian football, both as a prolific striker and a symbol of national pride, remains unparalleled. His dedication and love for the game inspired a generation of footballers and left an enduring imprint on the hearts of football enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond.
Rashidi Yekini Wife
Off the pitch, Yekini’s personal life included being married to three wives and being a proud father to three daughters—Yemisi, Omoyemi, and Damilola. It was reported that Rashidi Yekini has three wifes but only two of his wives were known to the public.
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Rashidi Yekini cause of death
In his later years, Yekini faced health challenges, and reports emerged in 2011 regarding his declining well-being. It was disclosed that he battled bipolar disorder and undisclosed psychiatric conditions.
Tragically, on May 4, 2012, Rashidi Yekini passed away at the age of 48 in Ibadan, Nigeria. Former national teammates Mutiu Adepoju and Ike Shorunmu confirmed the news, marking the end of an era in Nigerian football. Yekini was laid to rest at his residence in Ira, Kwara State, surrounded by his aged mother, brother, wives, children, and mourners who recognized the loss of a football legend.
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Rashidi Yekini Children
The Nigerian noteworthy player Rashidi Yekini has three children with the three of his marriages. Rashidi Yekini children include: Omoyemi Yekini, Musidat Damilola Yekini, and Yemisi Yekini. It was also reported that a Togolese woman claimed she had an affair with Rashidi Yekini and produced a child named Suliat which Rashidi Yekini denied he wasn’t responsible for the girl.
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Rashidi Yekini Goals
Rashidi Yekini happens to be one of the highest goal scorer in Nigeria which he appeared in 62 games with a top goals of 37 goals. Rashidi Yekini had 32 goals for Nigeria during his while time on Pitch.
Remembering a Legend
As we reflect on the life and career of Rashidi Yekini, we celebrate not only his incredible achievements on the field but also the passion, dedication, and inspiration he brought to Nigerian football. His 37 international goals, the iconic World Cup celebration, and his significant impact on the sport make Rashidi Yekini a timeless legend. May his soul continue to rest in peace 🕊️.
Continue the Journey with Rashidi Yekini and Nigerian Football Legends
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