Former Super Eagles striker Samson Siasia has lifted the lid on one of the most challenging episodes of his international career, his temporary expulsion from the national team after a fallout on the pitch with legendary forward Rashidi Yekini.
Speaking in a chat with Emmanuel Babayaro on UTVAfrica, Siasia recalled how a 1994 World Cup qualifier against the Ivory Coast in Abidjan became a turning point. During the match, he opted to shoot instead of passing to Yekini, who was better positioned. The decision infuriated then-coach Clemens Westerhof, who saw it as selfish play and subsequently dropped him from the squad.
Reflecting on the incident, the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner explained that his choice was influenced by earlier missed chances by Yekini.
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“I am a striker. Rashidi wouldn’t have given me that ball either, that’s the truth. Sometimes you miss, sometimes you score,” Siasia said. “He was one of the greatest strikers I ever played with—may his soul rest in peace.”
As reported on 24th September 2025, Siasia admitted it was a difficult period but one that strengthened his resolve to fight back for his place in the team.
“My first real downtime was when I didn’t pass to Yekini and got kicked out. I had to hustle my way back into the squad. Trying times are always there to make you stronger,” he said.
He added that criticism of the episode has lingered, but insists it was part of football.
“A lot of people kept asking why I didn’t pass. But even the one I did pass, he couldn’t score. Things happen—we didn’t take it personal.”
