By our reporter 4-7-2025
World football legend and Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner so far, George Weah has lamented the passing of Peter Rufai a.k.a Dodo Manyana.
The World famous Nigerian safest hands breathed his last Thursday in Lagos Hospital, after a long battle with illnesses. He was 61 years of age.
The mercurial striker and former Liberian President who is now 50, came against Rufai in World Cup qualifying games and during the African Cup of Nations tournament back in the 1990s.
“It’s a really sad for football,” Weah posted on his Facebook page while reflecting on the death of Liverpool star Diogo Jota in a car crash earlier on Thursday. Rufai died at about 6.30am
“The passing of legendary Nigerian football icon Peter Rufai is a big blow.
“I fondly remember his heroic leadership as captain of the Super Eagles, guiding the team to win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.
“As a contemporary, I came to greatly admire his skill and dedication. His towering presence in goal—especially during Nigeria’s historic 1994 World Cup debut—remains etched in our memories.
“My deepest condolences go to his family, the Super Eagles, and the Nigerian people. May his legacy continue to inspire generations.”
Photo: Weah sizing up the Super Eagles during an international friendly.