Nigerians Mourn Passing of Legendary Super Eagles Goalkeeper Peter Rufai: “Goodnight Peter”
- Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai has passed away at 61 after a prolonged illness
- The legendary goalkeeper played in two World Cups, won AFCON in 1994, and earned 65 caps for Nigeria
- Fans and football bodies have paid tribute to “Dodo Mayana” across social media and beyond
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Nigeria is mourning the loss of one of its greatest football legends, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana, who passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61 after battling a prolonged illness.
Rufai was more than just a goalkeeper; he was a symbol of pride, resilience, and excellence in Nigerian football.
Source: Getty Images
With a career that spanned two decades, the 61-year-old goalie guarded the posts for clubs across Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain before leaving his unforgettable mark on the Nigerian national team, Vanguard reports.
His death comes as a double blow to the football community, already shaken by the tragic passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother.
Yet, Rufai's passing stands on its own, marking the end of an era for a generation of fans who grew up watching the golden age of Nigerian football.
A legacy etched in glory
According to the Daily Post, Peter Rufai made 65 appearances for the Super Eagles between 1983 and 1998, commanding respect and admiration as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during its most memorable era.
Source: Getty Images
He was part of the legendary squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 1994, and also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups, in USA ’94 and France ’98.
Rufai’s performances between the goalpost were marked by calm authority, sharp reflexes, and leadership.
He was not just a player, he was a rallying force for the Super Eagles team.
Beyond his on-pitch brilliance, Rufai was known for his gentlemanly character and professionalism, traits that endeared him to fans, teammates, and coaches alike.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) paid tribute with a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter):
"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."
Rufai was more than a goalkeeper
Rufai has been hailed as more than just a goalkeeper by a generation that watched him shine for the Super Eagles in the 1990s.
“Peter Rufai was more than just a goalkeeper, he was a symbol of belief, leadership, and pride for an entire generation of Nigerian football fans,” Nigerian football expert Toritseju Williams told Legit.ng following news of his passing.
“From his iconic saves at the 1994 World Cup to his unwavering presence in goal, Rufai inspired countless young players and helped put Nigeria on the global football map.
"His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the gloves of every aspiring Nigerian keeper.”
Nigerians pay tribute to a fallen hero
News of Rufai’s passing has triggered an emotional wave across social media, with Nigerians from all walks of life paying tribute to the man who stood tall for the nation.
Mr Nigerian Football wrote:
“My father told me stories about him at the World Cup. Stories I’ll pass onto my children. Rest in peace, Dodo Mayana 🦅💔.”
Another added:
“RIP Peter Rufai. A Nigerian football legend 💔 🕊️ 🦅 🇳🇬”
Another grieving fan posted:
“Tunisia 94 was my first interaction with football. In that tournament, I thought his first name was Keeper, so I called him Keeper Rufai. I was only 8 then. I’m sure I wasn’t alone.”
Peter Rufai dies at 61
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Stationery Stores legend Peter Rufai is reported dead following a prolonged illness.
The news came as a rude shock to the football community and Nigerians who are huge fans of the goalkeeper.
Source: Legit.ng
