Peter Rufai: Nigerian Football Legend Passes Away
Rufai's impressive career spanned over two decades, with notable achievements including winning the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and participating in two FIFA World Cup finals. His impact on Nigerian football extends beyond his playing career, as he mentored young players and served as a coordinator for the Nigeria U23 team.
Peter Rufai, a Nigerian football legend and former Super Eagles captain, has passed away at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy as a giant of Nigerian football. Rufai was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, beating Zambia 2-1 in the final.
Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and featured at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals, making his debut for the Green Eagles in 1981. He played for several Nigerian clubs before moving to play overseas in Benin, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. Rufai spent 17 years in the Nigeria senior team and was known for his skills on and off the field, mentoring young players and serving as coordinator of the Nigeria U23 team.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has mourned his passing, describing him as a "giant of Nigerian football" and a 1994 AFCON champion. The Super Eagles confirmed his death, saying he would be "forever in our hearts." Rufai's legacy lives on, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest Nigerian football players of all time.
Rufai's passing is a significant loss for Nigerian football, but his contributions to the sport will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered as a hero and a legend of the beautiful game in Nigeria.