Legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as “Dodo Mayana”, has passed away at the age of 61.
According to a report by Radio Nigeria, Rufai died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025. While details surrounding his death remain unclear, an official statement from the family is still being awaited.
The news of his sudden passing has left Nigeria’s football community in deep mourning, with many expressing shock and sadness over the loss of one of the country's most iconic sportsmen.
Rufai was celebrated not only for his brilliance on the field but also for being a trailblazer in African goalkeeping. He was widely respected for his calm presence, quick reflexes, and leadership between the posts.
His football journey began with Stationery Stores FC in Lagos before moving abroad to play in Europe, with notable stints at Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands and Deportivo La Coruña in Spain.
Peter Rufai was a crucial part of the Nigerian national team, representing the Super Eagles in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he helped secure Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON victory.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from fans, former teammates, and football bodies, all remembering Rufai as a national hero who gave his all for club and country.
His legacy as a pioneer and legend in Nigerian football will live on.
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