Rashidi Yekini’s Legacy Celebrated by Google Doodle on 60th Birthday

On October 23, 2023, Google Doodle celebrated the 60th birthday of the iconic Nigerian football player, Rashidi Yekini. Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, in 1962, Yekini’s journey to football stardom was not straightforward. Before his rise to fame, he worked as a welder and mechanic to make ends meet. However, his passion for football was undeniable, and he soon began showcasing his talent in front of scouts.

By 1981, Yekini had joined his first football club, UNTL FC, in Kaduna. His exceptional skills as a striker were evident when he played for the Shooting Stars, scoring an impressive 45 goals in 53 games. This outstanding performance earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year in 1983, making him the first Nigerian player to receive this honor. The following year, Yekini played a pivotal role in leading the Shooting Stars to the finals of the African Champions Cup.

Yekini’s talent was not confined to Nigeria. He played for football clubs in various countries, including Spain, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, Portugal, Tunisia, Switzerland, and Greece. During his time with the Portuguese team Vitoria Setubal, he clinched the Bola de Prata (Silver Ball) for being the league’s top-scoring player in the 1993-94 season.

Today would’ve been Baba Yekini 6️⃣0️⃣th birthday 🎂 #Nigeria legend Rashidi Yekini scored FOUR goals to finish as the top scorer at the 1992 AFCON in Senegal.

The memories will always be there.
pic.twitter.com/KMB3LAex9V

— Oluwashina Okeleji (@oluwashina) October 23, 2023

Happy Posthumous Birthday to the African Legend Rashidi Yekini, who scored 36 goals for the Super Eagles and made history with Nigeria's first World Cup goal.

He scored 36 goals for the super eagles, and represented Nigeria in 5 major football tournaments, including two World… pic.twitter.com/bkpChvEhwD

— Yorùbáness (@Yorubaness) October 23, 2023

Tragically, Yekini passed away on May 4, 2012, in Ibadan, Nigeria. His demise was a significant loss to the football community worldwide. However, his legacy as a trailblazer for Nigerian football remains intact. Yekini’s contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark, inspiring young footballers in Africa and beyond.

The Google Doodle, known for its creative and informative homepage illustrations, paid tribute to Yekini’s achievements and hard work. The doodle, colored in the hues of the Nigerian flag, depicted a goalpost with Yekini in action, aptly capturing the essence of the ‘Goalsfather’.