By Ayodele Oni
Former Nigeria’s Super Eagles first-choice goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, is dead.
Rufai passed away on Thursday after battling with prolonged illness. He was 61 years.
Report of his death was monitored on the network news of Radio Nigeria.
While the family is yet to issue an official statement, the news of his death has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football community and beyond, as tributes begin to pour in for the iconic goalkeeper who stood tall between the posts for the Super Eagles.
Rufai was a central figure in Nigeria’s golden football era. He was the first-choice goalkeeper during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups—USA ’94 and France ’98. Renowned for his leadership, reflexes, and charisma, Rufai earned over 60 caps for the national team and remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers.
Beyond his national team heroics, he had a successful club career across Europe, playing for clubs in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
After retirement, he remained active in football development and youth mentoring through his Staruf Academy in Lagos.
Nicknamed Dodomayana—a nod to his regal heritage as the son of a traditional ruler—Rufai was admired for his discipline, professionalism, and advocacy for education among aspiring athletes.
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