Former Nigerian international, Daniel Amokachi, has pleaded with Nigerians to forgive former Super Eagles striker, Yakubu Aiyegbeni over the missed goal against South Korea at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
According to Amokachi, Nigerians have yet to pardon Aiyegbeni for over a decade he committed the blunder in front of an empty post.
He explained that in football, it was a natural thing for great players across the world to mess up in front of goalkeepers.
“It is not new in football. I have missed a good goal opportunity before.
“Great players across the world had messed up in front of goalkeepers.
“We need to forgive him [Yakubu Aiyegbeni] so that he can enjoy his retirement,” Amokachi told Brila FM.
Meanwhile, Ayegbeni had since apologised to Nigerians shortly after the World Cup, saying the action was not intentional.
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” Ayegbeni said. “In football, you miss chances for your club, and people forgive you.
“I didn’t do it on purpose. I am just here to say I’m sorry for what happened. They should forgive and forget.”
Ayegbeni played for several clubs in Europe, including Maccabi Haifa, Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Everton.
The 37-year-old retired from football in 2017.