Ex-Super Eagles Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies at 61

Ex-Super Eagles Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies at 61

Former Super Eagles first-choice goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, is dead.

Rufai passed away on Thursday after battling with prolonged illness. He was 61 years old.

Dodo Mayana, as he was fondly called, was widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has produced.

During his playing career that lasted two decades, Rufai played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

He also represented Nigeria at two World Cups and many Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

In a statement released on Thursday via X, the Super Eagles described Rufai as a towering figure in Nigerian football history whose contributions would never be forgotten.

“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” the statement read.

The statement lauded Rufai’s legacy, particularly his heroics between the posts and his influence beyond the pitch.

“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” it added.

Rufai was part of the historic Nigerian squad that won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for the country’s first FIFA World Cup the same year.

His death comes on a day the world of football is mourning Liverpool forward, Diogo Jota.

Jota died in a car crash in Spain earlier in the day, alongside his brother.