### Legendary Nigerian Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Passes Away at 61 After Prolonged Illness Peter Rufai, a celebrated figure in Nigerian football, has died at the age of 61 following a long-term illness. Known for his role as a goalkeeper, Rufai captained the Nigerian national team during a notable match against England and represented Nigeria in two FIFA World Cups. His contributions to the sport, particularly during the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) where Nigeria emerged victorious, have left a lasting legacy in African football. The news of his passing has prompted widespread mourning across Nigeria and the football community at large, with tributes pouring in from fans, former teammates, and officials alike [https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/international-footballer-who-captained-country-35501325][https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/sports/2025/07/04/former-nigeria-goalkeeper-peter-rufai-dies-aged-61]. ### Overview of Peter Rufai's Life and Career 1. **Early Life and Career** - Rufai was born in Nigeria and began his football career in local clubs before making a name for himself in the national team. - He earned the nickname "Dodomayana" during his playing days, reflecting his popularity among fans. 2. **International Achievements** - Rufai earned **65 caps** for the Nigerian national team, showcasing his skills on the international stage. - He played in the **1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups**, contributing significantly to Nigeria's football history. - He was part of the Super Eagles squad that won the **1994 AFCON**, defeating Zambia in the final [https://www.thesun.ie/sport/15485489/peter-rufai-dead-world-cup-star-nigeria][https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/nigeria-football-legend-afcon-winner-peter-rufai-dead-passes-way-at-61-super-eagles-news/article69771095.ece]. 3. **Health and Passing** - Rufai had been battling a prolonged illness prior to his death, which occurred in Lagos [https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1662787-president-tinubu-mourns-passing-super-egless-goal-keeper-peter-rufai]. - His passing has been met with tributes from various sectors, including President Bola Tinubu, who praised his contributions to Nigerian football [https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1662714-peter-rufai-shehu-sani-reacts-legendary-super-eagles-goalkeeper-dies-61]. ### Impact and Legacy of Peter Rufai - **Tributes and Mourning** - The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed shock and sadness over Rufai's death, highlighting his status as a football legend [https://leadership.ng/nff-super-eagles-mourn-legendary-goalkeeper-peter-rufai]. - Fans and former players have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories, emphasizing the impact Rufai had on the sport and his role in inspiring future generations [https://newscentral.africa/legendary-super-eagles-goalkeeper-peter-rufai-dies-at-61]. - **Statistical Highlights** - **Caps for Nigeria**: 65 - **World Cups Participated**: 2 (1994, 1998) - **AFCON Titles**: 1 (1994) ### Conclusion: A Legacy Remembered Peter Rufai's death marks a significant loss for Nigerian football, as he was not only a skilled goalkeeper but also a leader and an inspiration to many. His contributions to the Super Eagles and his role in Nigeria's football history will be remembered fondly. The outpouring of tributes from fans, officials, and fellow players underscores the profound impact he had on the sport. As Nigeria mourns the loss of this football legend, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players [https://news.az/news/former-nigeria-goalkeeper-peter-rufai-dies-at-61][https://businesstodayng.com/breaking-ex-super-eagles-goalkeeper-peter-rufai-dies-at-61].