The Super Eagles have mourned the passing of former Nigerian goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Peter Rufai, who died at the age of 61.
In a statement posted on Thursday via X, the national team paid tribute to Rufai, fondly called “Dodo Mayana,” describing him as a towering figure in the country’s football history whose impact will never be forgotten.
“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,” the statement read.
The tribute highlighted his remarkable contributions both on and off the pitch:
“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
Rufai was a key part of Nigeria’s golden generation, helping the Super Eagles lift the 1994 AFCON trophy and qualify for the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup that same year.
