In a statement, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have paid tribute to former Nigerian goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations champion, Petert Rufai, following news of his death.
The national team, in the statement released on Thursday via X, described Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” as a towering figure in Nigerian football history whose contributions would never be forgotten.
The statement reads: “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion.
“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
It lauded Rufai’s legacy, particularly his heroics between the posts and his influence beyond the pitch.
Rufai was part of the historic Nigerian squad that won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for the country’s first FIFA World Cup the same year.