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By Oche Onu
Former Nigeria's most capped and most popular goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, is dead. The goalkeeper, nicknamed Dodo Mayana, died Thursday in Lagos after a protracted illness.
“Dodo Mayana” was reckon one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, with a distinguished 20-year international career spanning Africa and Europe.
Early Life & Club Career
Peter was born in Lagos on 24 August 1963 to a tribal king from Idimu, Lagos. Despite his royal lineage, football became his true calling.
He began with football career with Stationery Stores FC (1980–1984) and Femo Scorpions (1985) in Nigeria.
He later moved to AS Dragons FC in Benin (1986–1987) — his first foray abroad — becoming Nigeria’s first goalkeeper to play overseas.I
In Belgium, he featured for KSC Lokeren (1987–1991) and Beveren (1991–1993), before playing in the Netherlands for Go Ahead Eagles (1993–1994).
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His time in Portugal at Farense (1994–1997) was marked by stellar performances—38 goals conceded in 34 matches and UEFA Cup qualification.L
Later, he joined Hércules CF (1997), and then Deportivo La Coruña (1997–1999), serving mainly as backup but still securing key clean sheets.F
Peter ended his playing career at Gil Vicente FC in Portugal (1999–2000).
International Career & Achievements
Peter ruled Nigeria’s goal from 1983 to 1998, earning 65 caps and scoring 1 goal—a penalty vs Ethiopia in 1993.
He was nicknamed Dodo Mayana when he captained the Super Eagles to victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.
He participated in two FIFA World Cups: as first-choice keeper in USA 1994 and France 1998, both times Nigeria reached the Round of 16.
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