In a tragic twist that’s stirring major feels across Nigeria, ex-Super Eagles shot-stopper Peter Rufaiaffectionately nicknamed “Dodo Mayana”has sadly passed away at age 61 after battling a prolonged illness. Rumor has it, his health had been on the low for a while, and in the early hours of July 3, the football legend finally bowed out
Let that sink in: Rufai wasn’t any average goalie. He was the beating heart of Nigeria’s glory days guarding the net during both the 1994 and 1998 World Cups and proudly lifting the AFCON trophy in ’94 with the Super Eagles . The Nigeria Football Federation wasted no time dropping a heartfelt tribute via X: “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. … Rest well, Peter Rufai” .
The man wasn’t just a national hero—he was a European journeyman too, with stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain La Liga included . After hanging up his gloves, he stayed in Spain and launched a goalkeeper academy, mentoring the next generation of Nigerian talents .
Pop the champagne for a life fully lived. From Luxe Lagos pitches to continental stardom, Rufai wasn’t just an athlete he was legacy material. And now, as Nigeria mourns, the streets hum with nostalgia, memories, and maybe even a tad of regret.
So here’s the real talk: Peter Rufai wasn’t just football royalty he was a storyteller in goal. His legacy? That fire you feel every time a young goalie punts it sky-high, dreams ablaze.
