Peter Rufai Dies At 61: What To Know About The Legendary Super Eagles Goalkeeper

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has passed away at the age of 61. He died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness that had kept him out of the public eye for several years. 

Celebrated as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, Rufai enjoyed an illustrious career that spanned two decades, playing for local clubs like Stationery Stores as well as European sides such as Go Ahead Eagles, Farense, and Deportivo La Coruña. 

He made 65 appearances for the Nigerian national team, featured in two FIFA World Cups, and was a key figure in the Super Eagles’ historic 1994 AFCON triumph. Though his family is yet to release an official statement, his former teammate Waidi Akanni confirmed the sad news.

Who Was Peter Rufai? 

Peter Rufai was a retired Nigerian goalkeeper, widely regarded as one of the finest in the nation’s football history. Fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’, he stood out for his composure, leadership, and shot-stopping ability, often compared to later stars like Vincent Enyeama. He represented clubs across Africa and Europe, building a respected career that left a lasting legacy in Nigerian sports.

Early Life of Legendary Super Eagles Goalkeeper

Peter Rufai was born on August 24, 1963, in Oshodi, Lagos State, into a royal family from the Idimu area. Raised in a polygamous household, he experienced a relatively privileged upbringing more comfortable than what was typical for many children of his era.

Following the death of his father in early 1998, his club at the time, Deportivo La Coruña, granted him leave to return home and engage in succession discussions. However, Rufai chose to forgo the traditional throne, reaffirming his deep commitment to football.

He was married to Mikaila Rufai, and their union is blessed with four children.

Rufai’s Football Career

Peter Rufai began his football journey with Stationery Stores FC and Femo Scorpions, where his exceptional goalkeeping skills quickly drew attention.

After making his mark locally, he took his first step onto the international stage in 1986, signing with AS Dragons FC de l’Ouémé in the Benin Republic. Although specific details of his time at the club remain limited, his performances there were impressive enough to spark interest from European scouts, paving the way for the next chapter of his career abroad.

Career In Europe

Following an impressive season with AS Dragons, Peter Rufai caught the attention of European clubs and signed with Belgian side KSC Lokeren in the summer of 1987. He spent four solid years there before moving to KSK Beveren in 1991, where he played for another two seasons.

In the 1993/94 campaign, Rufai joined Dutch club Go Ahead Eagles, making 12 appearances as the team finished 12th in the Eredivisie. The following year, he moved to Portugal to play for SC Farense, where his influence was pivotal helping the club qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time in its history. His standout performances earned him a move to Hércules CF in Spain in 1997, but limited opportunities and the team’s relegation made it a challenging stint.

In the summer of 1998, Rufai signed with Deportivo La Coruña as a backup goalkeeper. He featured in just nine matches over two seasons, contributing mostly as a squad player. As his career neared its end, he returned to Portugal in 1999 to join Gil Vicente, making a single appearance before retiring in 2000.

Three years after his retirement, Rufai settled in Spain, where he channeled his passion into mentoring young talents by establishing a goalkeeping school.

International Career

The highly respected goalkeeper earned 65 caps for Nigeria during his international career. As the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper, Rufai featured in both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup tournaments, solidifying his place in Nigerian football history.

He was also between the sticks when Nigeria clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Tunisia in 1994. In a memorable moment on July 24, 1993, Rufai joined the ranks of goalkeepers who’ve scored, confidently converting a penalty in a 6-0 victory over Ethiopia during an AFCON qualifier. He brought his international journey to a close in 2000, capping off a distinguished 20-year football career.

Football Academy 

Driven by a passion to give back, Rufai established Staruf Football Academy in Lagos on January 1, 2010. The academy is dedicated to nurturing young Nigerian football talents, providing professional training and development. Located at 1 Sowande Street, Off Rev Emma Adubifa, Omole Phase 2, Lagos, the academy stands as a testament to his enduring love for the game.