JUST IN: Super Eagles legend Rufai dies at 60
Nigerian football has been thrown into mourning following the death of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai
Rufai, widely known by his nickname Dodo Mayana, passed away on Thursday following illness.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the death of the legendary goalkeeper, describing him as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of the country’s most iconic players.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote on social media.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Rufai was a key figure in Nigeria’s golden generation, helping the Super Eagles win their second Africa Cup of Nations title in 1994.
He was also the team’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
He earned over 60 caps for Nigeria during a career that spanned more than a decade and was known for his agility, leadership, and composure in goal.
At club level, Rufai had a successful career in Europe, with spells in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
He is perhaps best remembered for his time at Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF in Spain’s top divisions.
