His blistering pace, good sense of awareness, amazing body balance, scary shoot from the foot, awesome heading ability coupled with great finishing technique when faced with the goal post. Who is this? This is no other than the great Rashidi Yekini.
His professional career, which spanned more than two decades, was mainly associated with Vitoria de Setubal in Portugal, where he netted 90 goals in 108 appearances.
Yekini scored 37 goals as a Nigerian international, and represented the nation in five major tournaments, including two World Cups. He was also named the African Footballer of the Year in 1993.
With such great record, Nigeria has struggled to find a replacement but the emergence of youth prodigy, Taiwo Awoniyi brings forth good hope.
Standing 1.78m tall, Awoniyi was the star at the last under-17 FIFA World Cup, where he scored 4 goals, leading his team to the title. Ever since that triumph, he has not looked back; he has represented Nigeria in the under-20 and under-23 category and he is currently being chased by Manchester United among other European clubs.
Many have tipped him to become a top striker for Nigeria given his proficiency in front of goal. With the under-20 FIFA World Cup, which will soon take place, it will be the perfect opportunity for him to clear all doubts from his teaming fans and club suitors.
About the Writer: Okafor Obinna Martins coined ‘Obi martins’ by his friends, is a seasoned sport writer who blends his profession as a Maritime Navigator with creative writing. During his spare time, he enjoys playing board games.Taiwo Awoniyi: The Young Rashidi Yekini?
