Former Nigerian Goalkeeper, Peter Fregene Is Dead

Former goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Green Eagles, Peter Fregene has passed away at age of 77.

The sad news was shared by his close friend and fellow ex-footballer, Segun Odegbami, in a heartfelt post on Facebook Sunday night.

Odegbami revealed that Fregene died at home, surrounded by his wife, Tina, and two of his children, after battling a long illness.

He also revealed that Peter Fregene had been on life support for the past week before his death.

The 72-year-old Odegbami, who had previously called for financial help for Fregene, expressed his gratitude to those who supported the former goalkeeper during his illness.

He also thanked all those who rallied around Fregene, offering prayers and support, before wishing his friend eternal peace.

“And the Man died. A few minutes ago, Peter ‘Apo’ Fregene, OLY, former goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Green Eagles, who has been on life-support for the past one week, passed on to meet his Creator,” he wrote.

“He died quietly in the presence of two of his children and his devoted wife, Tina.

“On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sports persons, his family, friends, fans and a few incredible Nigerians that quietly rallied round and, with their support, prayers and the will of the Creator of the Universe, kept him alive until this night, I say a big ‘thank you’.

“Good night ‘Apo’. Rest my friend, rest in peace, finally!” Odegbami said.

Known as the “Flying Cat” or “Apo,” Fregene was Nigeria’s top goalkeeper between 1968 and 1971, returning to the national team for the 1982 African Cup of Nations.

He also represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico. Throughout his career, which spanned from the 1960s to the 1980s, he won the Nigerian FA Cup with ECN and Stationery Stores.

Stationery Stores Football Club paid tribute to Fregene in a statement on Monday, calling him an “integral part of the team” during the 1960s and 1970s.

The club’s chairman, Adetilewa Adebajo, extended condolences to Fregene’s family, honoring his role in Nigeria’s football history.

Adebajo highlighted Fregene’s contributions to Nigeria’s 1968 Olympic squad, which famously drew 3-3 against Brazil, and praised his agility and skill, which earned him the nickname “Flying Cat.”

He wrote, “Peter was an integral part of the legendary Stationery Stores team of the sixties and seventies that provided 10 players on a regular basis to the National Green Eagles Football team,” the statement reads in part.

“He was in the squad that represented Nigeria in the 1968 Olympics. A team that held the giants of Brazil and Pele to a 3-3 draw.

“Peter was undoubtedly the dominant goalkeeper in the country in the late 60s and 70s. His exploits are woven into Nigeria’s football folklore as his agility earned him the nickname the flying cat amongst others. His physical presence, superb abilities and showmanship, endeared him to millions on fans.

“On behalf of the family of the Late Israel Adebajo, Board, Management, Players, past and present especially our teaming supporters, we commiserate with the Family, Children and devoted wife Tina of our beloved player and goalkeeper.

“We pray the Almighty will give us all the strength and fortitude to overcome this sad loss. We take solace in the memory, legacy and joy this beautiful soul has given us with his exploits in the beautiful game.

“Thank you Champion. Rest in Peace.”

KanyiDaily had also reported how former Sheffield United defender, George Baldock tragically died after being found lifeless in his swimming pool in Greece.