By Waheed Adepoju
Former Nigerian senior national football team the Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper Peter Rufai is dead.
A family source, who confirmed the development on Thursday evening disclosed that Rufai, 61, passed away on Thursday after battling with a prolonged illness.
“Dodomayana”, as he was fondly called, was widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has ever produced.
During his playing career that lasted two decades, Rufai played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
He also represented Nigeria at two World Cups and as many Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Rufai’s death comes on a day the world of football is mourning Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain earlier on Thursday too, alongside his younger brother.
The striker had just recently gotten married on June 28 to his long term partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom they have three kids.
His Liverpool contract was due to expire in 2027.
