The football world is in mourning following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
His death comes on the heels of the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, marking a sombre moment for the global football community
Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, was a towering figure in Nigerian football history. He was part of the iconic Super Eagles squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and also featured in Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance that same year.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” read a tribute on the Super Eagles’ official X handle.
“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
Capped 65 times for Nigeria, Rufai is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers the country has ever produced. In 1993, he made history by scoring for the Super Eagles in a 6–0 victory over Ethiopia, a rare feat for a goalkeeper.
His club career spanned Nigeria and several European countries, including stints at Dragons de l’Ouémé (Benin Republic), Lokeren and Beveren (Belgium), Go Ahead Eagles (Netherlands), and Farense and Gil Vicente (Portugal).
Known for his quick reflexes and acrobatic saves, Rufai earned his nickname “Dodo Mayana” — a name that became synonymous with safe hands and national pride.
Beyond the pitch, Rufai pursued education and obtained coaching qualifications from the National Institute for Sports in Lagos, preparing for a future in football development and mentorship.
Rufai’s legacy, however, remains firmly etched in the annals of Nigerian sports history.
