Former Super Eagles goalkeeper and one of Nigeria’s football greats, Peter Rufai, has passed away.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the death of the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion in a statement posted on its official X handle on Thursday.
“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.
Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” the NFF wrote.
Rufai, popularly known as “Dodo Mayana,” made 65 appearances for the Nigerian national team during a glittering career. He was a key member of the golden generation that brought glory to Nigeria by winning the AFCON title in Tunisia in 1994.
That same year, Rufai helped the Super Eagles qualify for their first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup, held in the United States. His leadership and performances between the posts were crucial in shaping Nigeria’s international football profile in the 1990s.
