Remembering “Dodo Mayana,” the King Who Chose Soccer
The Nigerian soccer neighborhood is grieving the loss of thought to be one of its most dear figures, Peter Rufai. Fondly identified as Dodo Mayana, Rufai passed away at the age of 61 on July 3, 2025.
Extra than excellent a goalkeeper, he was a trailblazer, a lumber-setter, and a source of delight for thousands and thousands of Nigerians. From his royal roots to his footballing legacy that spanned continents, Rufai’s existence was filled with moments that formed Nigerian soccer history.
Here are 29 issues it’s best to know about the man who helped put Nigeria on the world soccer plan:
1. Born into Royalty
Peter Rufai was born in Lagos on August 24, 1963, correct into a royal family in the Idimu location. He was next in line to change into king however selected soccer as a replacement.
2. Dodo Mayana Wasn’t Correct a Nickname
The establish became iconic. It captured his intrepid personality and the self perception he dropped at the pitch.
3. Among the First Nigerians to Play in Europe
He broke boundaries by playing expert soccer in top European leagues, one thing few Nigerian goalkeepers had carried out at the time.
4. Goalkeeper with a Aim
Rufai made history in 1993 when he scored a penalty against Ethiopia all the scheme thru an AFCON qualifier, the first by a Nigerian goalkeeper for the nationwide crew.
5. AFCON Hero
In 1994, he was the rock in honest as Nigeria clinched its 2d Africa Cup of Countries title.
6. A World Cup Pioneer
He stood between the sticks for Nigeria in both the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, the first Nigerian goalie to play at that stage.
7. Making Waves in Portugal
At S.C. Farense, his goalkeeping helped the crew qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time ever.
8. La Liga Highlights
Whereas with Deportivo de La Coruña, he as soon as saved a aesthetic sheet in a anxious 1–0 victory, proving he would possibly perchance maybe shine even in thought to be one of Europe’s hardest leagues.
9. A Frail of 65 Caps
Rufai proudly represented Nigeria 65 cases, changing into thought to be one of the most experienced goalkeepers the country has ever had.
10. Started From Lagos Streets
His roam started with local sides treasure Stationery Stores F.C. and Femo Scorpions, the build his abilities were first seen.
11. First Fashion of World Soccer
His pass to Benin Republic in 1986 was his stepping stone to the bigger stages of European soccer.
12. Belgian Years
He played in Belgium for six years, with stints at K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren, gaining precious European skills.
13. Dutch League Cameo
In the Netherlands, he had a stable flee with Race Forward Eagles in the Eredivisie, exhibiting 12 cases in a single season.
14. A Sophisticated twelve months in Spain
His time with Hércules CF was now not easy. He struggled for game time, and the crew ended up getting relegated.
15. Winding Down in Portugal
He carried out his expert playing days at Gil Vicente FC, wrapping up a career that spanned over two a long time.
16. Giving Back with Staruf Academy
In 2010, he launched a soccer academy in Lagos, aiming to construct younger potential whereas promoting education.
17. Teaching Goalkeeping in Spain
Even after retirement, Rufai stayed in the game, working a goalkeeping college in Spain.
18. A Nightmare for Penalty Takers
He had a repute for stopping penalties with lightning-rapidly reflexes and aloof nerves.
19. World Cup Captain
In 1994, he captained Nigeria at the World Cup, earning admiration for his management and composure.
20. Soccer in the Family
His son, Senbaty Rufai, moreover pursued a career in soccer, aiming to follow in his father’s footsteps.
21. AFCON Traditional
He featured in four AFCON tournaments (1984, 1988, 1990, 1992) earlier than lastly lifting the trophy in 1994.
22. Discipline Used to be His Secret
Rufai credited his long career to his strict discipline and work ethic, qualities he passed on to younger gamers.
23. Worst Match of His Occupation
The 4–1 defeat to Denmark at the 1998 World Cup timid him for years. He continuously acknowledged it was his most painful skills in soccer.
24. Gigantic on Books and Balls
He continuously advocated for younger athletes to center of attention on education excellent as worthy as sports activities.
25. Honoured by Nigeria
In 2021, he obtained a home in Abuja, a nationwide recognition for his contribution to Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON triumph.
26. Recognised Worldwide
His Wikipedia biography exists in over 20 languages, proof of his worldwide soccer legacy.
27. Impressed Future Eagles
His vogue and presence influenced a brand fresh generation of goalkeepers, including Vincent Enyeama.
28. Worked with the U-23 Team
After striking up his gloves, he contributed to Nigerian soccer as a U-23 crew coordinator.
29. A Myth, And not using a sign of ending Remembered
Peter Rufai passed away on July 3, 2025. The Nigerian Soccer Federation known as him a “massive of Nigerian soccer”, a becoming tribute for a one who gave all the pieces to the game.
