As football lovers in the country remember former Nigeria’s Super Eagles legendary striker, Rashidi Yekini who died eight years ago, former teammate, Mutiu Adepoju has said that he feels honoured to play by the striker’s side in Nigeria’s colour.
Yekini, who is Nigeria’s record scorer with 37 goals, died mysteriously in Ibadan on 4 May 2012 at the age of 48.
Adepoju, who is one of the members of the famous Super Eagles set to the country’s maiden FIFA World Cup in 1994, revealed that Yekini, who was referred to as ‘King of Goal’ by his many admirers, was never a contentious person because he saw everybody as his brother not minding their backgrounds.
“Today is the remembrance of this great man. His greatness is so huge that we still reminisce over his exploits in the beautiful game.
“Dear mate, I feel honoured playing with you in Nigeria’s colours and that was a big achievement on its own. You gave your 100% always.
“It was never a dull moment with you in camp as everyone’s ribs would be cracked at your jokes. You were never a contentious person and you saw everyone as your brother not minding their backgrounds,” Adepoju fondly called the Headmaster said.
Speaking further on Yekini, who scored Nigeria’s first ever FIFA World Cup goal in USA 1994 against Bulgaria, a match the Super Eagles won 3-0, Adepoju said Nigerians will always remember him for his many exploit infront of goal that saved the country from defeat.
“I will never forget you, Nigerians will never forget you. Always in our hearts. Rest in peace King Rashidi Yekini. You were created to score goals and your class remains unmatched!
“Whenever we seem down and defeated, you always conjure your magic wand and get us out of trouble with your goals,” Adepoju added.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
