Super Eagles Legend and 1994 AFCON Champion Remembered as a Goalkeeping Giant
Nigerian football is in mourning following the passing of legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who died on Thursday at the age of 61 after a long battle with illness.
Affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai was widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers. His brother confirmed to Flashscore.com that the former Super Eagles star had been struggling with health issues in recent months before his death on July 3.
The Nigerian national team paid tribute to their fallen hero on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “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.”
A Storied Career Across Continents
Rufai’s football journey began in 1980 with Lagos-based Stationery Stores before stints at Femo Scorpions and Benin Republic’s AS Dragons FC. His talent soon took him to Europe, where he spent six years in Belgium with K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren, though playing time was limited.
A move to the Netherlands in 1993 saw him feature for Go Ahead Eagles before his standout performances at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations earned him a transfer to Portugal’s S.C. Farense. There, he became a fan favorite, helping the club secure its first-ever UEFA Cup spot with a rock-solid defensive record.
His European adventure continued in Spain, where he played for Hércules CF and later served as backup at Deportivo La Coruña under Cameroonian goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o. He wrapped up his career with Gil Vicente FC in Portugal before returning to Nigeria.
A National Hero and Mentor
Rufai’s greatest legacy remains his contributions to Nigerian football. With over 65 caps, he was the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups and played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumphant 1994 AFCON campaign.
In a rare feat for a goalkeeper, Rufai even scored for his country—converting a penalty in a 6-0 thrashing of Ethiopia during a 1993 AFCON qualifier.
After hanging up his gloves, he devoted himself to grassroots football, founding Staruf FC to nurture young talents and inspire future generations.
As tributes pour in from across the football world, Peter Rufai’s name will forever be etched in Nigerian sporting history—not just as a legendary shot-stopper, but as a mentor, leader, and true icon of the beautiful game.
Rest in peace, Dodo Mayana.
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