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By Oscar Okhifo
Nigerian football has been plunged into mourning following the death of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana.” He died on Thursday after a brief illness at the age of 61.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed his passing in a tribute, describing Rufai as “a giant of Nigerian football” and “one of the country’s most iconic players.”
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote in a post 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 pillar of Nigeria’s golden football generation and played a pivotal role in the country’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He also served as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
Renowned for his agility, towering structure, composure, and leadership, Rufai earned over 60 international caps during an illustrious career that spanned more than a decade.
At club level, he enjoyed a successful professional career across Europe, playing in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. He is particularly remembered for his stints at Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF in Spain’s top flight.
Rufai’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football. Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football world, as fans and former teammates remember a man whose brilliance between the posts inspired a generation.
Pointblanknews.com Sports Desk joins millions of Nigerians in mourning the loss of this football great citizen. We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.