Tributes paid after Nigeria keeper Rufai dies aged 61
Peter Rufai has been hailed as a "giant of football" after the former Nigeria goalkeeper died aged 61 on Thursday following a prolonged illness.
Affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, he helped the Super Eagles win the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994 and also represented his nation at the Fifa World Cup in 1994 and 1998.
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Born in Lagos, Rufai enjoyed a stellar international career, earning 65 caps between 1983 and 1998.
His safe hands, commanding presence and calm demeanour made him a stand-out performer for Nigeria's golden generation of the 1990s.
"We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai - a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 Afcon champion," the Nigeria Football Federation posted on X.
"Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond."
Rufai's death marks yet another loss from Nigeria's celebrated 1994 squad, the team that not only conquered Africa but also announced the country's arrival on the global stage by reaching the last 16 on their World Cup debut in the United States.
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He becomes the sixth member of the that side to pass away, following the late Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Wilfred Agbonavbare, Thompson Oliha and Uche Okafor.
'Fly high Dodo Mayana'
Rufai was in goal as Nigeria beat Zambia 2-1 to win the Africa Cup of Nations title in 1994 [Getty Images]
After starting his playing career locally with Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions in Nigeria, Rufai went on to play professionally in Benin, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal.
Known not just for his reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, Rufai's dedication and professionalism inspired a generation of goalkeepers who followed in his footsteps.
"We lost an African legend Peter Rufai. May his soul rest well," former Nigeria team-mate Kanu posted on social media.
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"May your spirit continue to inspire all of us and future generations."
Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa said that the "nation mourns a hero" following Rufai's death.
"Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage," Musa said.
"Though you've left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, Dodo Mayana."
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