Ahmed Musa has joined the Nigerian football community in mourning the loss of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday after a prolonged illness.
Musa, a former captain of the national team, shared an emotional tribute to the late goalkeeper on social media, paying homage to his enduring legacy in Nigerian football.
“Cant believe im typing this – a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage, ” Musa wrote on X.
“May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODOMAYANA — the nation mourns a hero.
“Condolences to your family, friends, teammates, and fans. Rest in peace, legend. ️.”
Affectionately nicknamed “Dodo Mayana,” Rufai is remembered as one of Nigeria’s finest shot-stoppers.
He was instrumental in the Super Eagles’ historic triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia and featured at two FIFA World Cups, USA ’94 and France ’98.
During his illustrious career, Rufai earned 65 caps for the national team and had notable club stints with Stationery Stores in Lagos, Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, and Deportivo La Coruña in Spain.
His death marks the end of an era, but his name remains etched in the annals of Nigerian football history.