Nigeria, July 6 -- For over two decades, Peter Rufai - fondly called Dodo Mayana - stood tall between the goalposts as one of Nigeria's most iconic football figures.

His agility, calmness under pressure, and leadership made him a national hero and a symbol of Nigerian pride on the world stage.

While his passing on 4 July has left a gaping hole in the hearts of football fans, Rufai's legacy lives on in the unforgettable matches where he shone brightest.

He debuted for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981.

He went on to win silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984 and 1988, before playing a pivotal role as Nigeria clinched their second continental title in Tunisia in 1994.

He was the first-choice goalkee...