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23h ago

Peter Rufai, Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON Champion, Dies at 61

The Nigerian Football Federation has led tributes following the passing of Nigeria’s legendary goalkeeper after a prolonged illness.

Nigerian goalie Peter Rufai (L) holds the African Nations Cup trophy won in 1994 against Zambia in Tunis

Overview

  • Peter Rufai passed away in the early hours of Thursday at a Lagos hospital after battling a prolonged illness, the Super Eagles confirmed.
  • Nigerian Football Federation general secretary Mohammed Sanusi described the news as “really, really shocking” and offered prayers for eternal rest.
  • Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and was the first‐choice goalkeeper in the Super Eagles’ 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory and at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
  • During a two‐decade professional career he played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain before retiring in 2000.
  • After retiring he founded the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos to mentor young players and is survived by his wife, Mikaila Rufai, and their children.