Nigeria’s football community is in mourning after the report of the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who died at the age of 61.
According to a report by Sports Village Square, Rufai died on the morning of Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness. While the family is yet to issue an official statement, a top Lagos State Government official has confirmed the sad news. Radio Nigeria also corroborated the report.
The news of Peter Rufai’s death has sent shockwaves across the Nigerian football fraternity.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest-ever shot-stoppers, Rufai earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles. He was the first-choice goalkeeper during Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in Tunisia and also represented the nation at two FIFA World Cups: USA ’94 and France ’98.
Known for his agility, composure, and leadership, Rufai was a pillar during Nigeria’s golden football era in the 1990s. His performances earned him legendary status among fans and teammates alike.
Born in Lagos, Rufai began his football journey with Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions before moving to the Benin Republic in 1986 to play for AS Dragons FC de l’Ouémé. His European club career included stints in Belgium with K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren, as well as a season with Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles.
Rufai’s legacy in Nigerian football is unmatched, and his contributions to the national team will be remembered for generations. He was more than just a goalkeeper; he was a leader, an inspiration, and a true Nigerian football legend.
