Rashidi Yekini dies aged 48

Former Nigerian international Rashidi Yekini has died at the age of 48.

Yekini, who scored his nation's first ever World Cup goal in 1994, passed away suddenly in Ira, Nigeria yesterday.

"I remember him well - he was a solid attacker - it was so difficult to take the ball from him," said CAF president Issa Hayatou.

"His physical strength was impressive. His joviality made him an endearing character. He has made a mark on his generation and received recognition from the pantheon of African football.

"In these painful circumstances I want to send in my name and on behalf of all the executive committee and the entire African football family my deepest condolences to his people, the Nigerian Federation and all its supporters. May God bless his soul and comfort his family."

Yekini was named African Player of the Year in 1993.