Source: Liverpool_Echo
Everton FC striker Yakubu delighted as Nigeria head for World Cup
Mikel Arteta and Yakubu 460[LNB]DELIGHTED Everton striker Yakubu was quick to share the plaudits after his goal helped Nigeria secure their passage to next summer's World Cup finals in South Africa.[LNB]The Blues frontman and clubmate Joseph Yobo played starring roles as the Super Eagles fought back from a goal down to beat Kenya 3-2 in a dramatic showdown in Nairobi.[LNB]Their destiny wasn't in their own hands but Group B leaders Tunisia crashed to a 1-0 defeat in Mozambique which allowed Nigeria to finish a point clear and clinch the only qualification place.[LNB]"I want to give praise to God and my fellow players for making this happen," Yakubu said.[LNB]"It is a collective effort not just we, the goal scorers, but every player because without them we would not have been able to score on our own."[LNB]Nigeria trailed at half-time but former Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins levelled on the hour shortly after a shot from skipper Yobo had struck the bar.[LNB]Yakubu soon made it 2-1, converting the rebound after his initial shot hit the post, but when Kenya equalised on 78 minutes the Blues duo were facing World Cup heartbreak.[LNB]However, Nigeria responded and Martins grabbed the winner seven minutes from time to trigger scenes of jubilation.[LNB]Team official Peterside Idah revealed Yobo was among a number of players who broke down in tears.[LNB]"The dressing room was unbelievable," he said.
