Former Nigeria World Cup goalkeeper Peter Rufai dies at 61

Nigeria national team legend Peter Rufai reportedly passed away on Thursday. Rufai, a former first-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles, reportedly passed away after a long battle with illness at the age of 61 years old.

Fondly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai was widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has ever produced.

Rufai was the first-choice goalkeeper during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph and represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups—USA ’94 and France ’98.

Renowned for his leadership, reflexes and charisma, he earned over 60 caps for the national team and remained one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers.

Over a club career spanning two decades, the Nigerian shot stopper played professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. He also proudly represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups and two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

After retirement, he remained active in football development and youth mentoring through his Staruf Academy in Lagos.

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