Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, popularly known as “Dodo Mayana”, has passed away after a brief battle with illness. He was 61.
Rufai, a trailblazer in Nigerian football, was the first Nigerian goalkeeper to feature in a FIFA World Cup, playing a key role in the country’s debut appearance at USA 1994, where the Super Eagles reached the Round of 16. He was also part of the iconic squad that lifted the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy in Tunisia.
Over his international career, Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria between 1983 and 1998. Known for his composure, reflexes, and leadership at the back, he was instrumental in elevating the standard and global perception of Nigerian goalkeeping.
At club level, Rufai featured prominently across Europe, playing for sides including K.S.C. Lokeren and Hércules CF in Spain, and Gil Vicente in Portugal. In total, he made over 100 professional club appearances, establishing himself as a respected figure abroad during an era when few Nigerians played in Europe.
In one of his most memorable moments, Rufai scored a rare goal as a goalkeeper—converting a penalty in Nigeria’s 6-0 victory over Ethiopia in a CAF qualifying match.
Rufai, who hailed from Lagos State and was the son of a traditional ruler, balanced his football career with strong family and cultural values. Post-retirement, he was active in sports development and youth mentorship.
His passing marks the loss of one of Nigeria’s football pioneers.
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Rufai was one of Nigeria’s great sports hero’s. So sad he had to leave us at this time. May his soul rest in peace. Its up to the government to immortalize his memory, at least to serve as incentive for Nigerian sports men and women to continue to give their best to their fatherland.