Former Super Eagles Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies at 61
Nigeria’s football community 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 prolonged illness.
Popularly known by fans as “Dodo Mayana,” Rufai was a revered figure in Nigerian football, widely remembered for his role in Nigeria’s golden era during the 1990s. He was the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper when the team won the 1994 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia. That same year, he represented Nigeria at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States and was also part of the squad at the 1998 World Cup in France.
Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai enjoyed a successful playing career that spanned more than two decades. He began his football journey with Nigerian clubs such as Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions, before moving abroad, where he featured for clubs in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
His European club career included stints with Lokeren and Beveren in Belgium, Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, and Portuguese clubs Farense and Gil Vicente. He later moved to Spain, where he played for Hércules CF and Deportivo La Coruña. His time at Deportivo marked a significant period, as he became one of the few Nigerian goalkeepers to feature in Spain’s top flight.
Off the field, Peter Rufai remained committed to football development, establishing a goalkeeper academy in Lagos to train and mentor young talents. Known for his leadership, discipline, and sportsmanship, he was a role model to many aspiring footballers across Africa.
Following news of his death, tributes have poured in from across the football world.