Nigerian football lost a legend Thursday when Peter Rufai died at age 61. The former Super Eagles goalkeeper had battled a long sickness before passing away. Lagos State Government officials confirmed his death to the public. Fans knew him best as Dodo Mayana throughout his playing days. Tributes flooded social media from football stars across Africa.
Rufai became famous for his amazing saves during the 1990s. He played 65 times for Nigeria and appeared at two World Cups. The goalkeeper helped his country win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. His calm style under pressure made him a fan favorite. Soccer supporters gave him the Dodo Mayana nickname because of his quick moves.
The keeper played professional football across six different countries. He started his career at Stationery Stores back home before moving to Europe. Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain all saw him play for their clubs. Rufai once scored a penalty kick during a 6-0 victory over Ethiopia. His playing style mixed flashy moves with solid fundamentals.
After hanging up his gloves, Rufai focused on teaching young goalkeepers. He started the Staruf Goalkeeping Academy to train future stars. The former international shared his knowledge with kids who dreamed of playing professionally. Born into a royal family from Idimu, he never forgot his roots. His legacy lives on through the many players he mentored over the years.
Rufai became famous for his amazing saves during the 1990s. He played 65 times for Nigeria and appeared at two World Cups. The goalkeeper helped his country win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. His calm style under pressure made him a fan favorite. Soccer supporters gave him the Dodo Mayana nickname because of his quick moves.
The keeper played professional football across six different countries. He started his career at Stationery Stores back home before moving to Europe. Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain all saw him play for their clubs. Rufai once scored a penalty kick during a 6-0 victory over Ethiopia. His playing style mixed flashy moves with solid fundamentals.
After hanging up his gloves, Rufai focused on teaching young goalkeepers. He started the Staruf Goalkeeping Academy to train future stars. The former international shared his knowledge with kids who dreamed of playing professionally. Born into a royal family from Idimu, he never forgot his roots. His legacy lives on through the many players he mentored over the years.
