Peter Fregene represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and featured prominently in the national team during the 1960s and 70s
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian football legend and former Green Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Fregene, has died at 77.
He died at a hospital in Oghara, Delta State after battling a protracted illness.
His death was confirmed on Sunday night by ex-international and close friend, Segun Odegbami.
According to him, the ex-goalkeeper died in the presence of his wife, Tina, and two of his children.
He went on to thank those who rallied around the football icon during his illness.
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Speaking in a viral post, Odegbami wrote, “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 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’ “
He added, “Good night ‘Apo’.
Rest my friend, rest in peace, finally! “
Peter Fregene represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and featured prominently in the national team during the 1960s and 70s.
His incredible reflexes, agility and resilience between the posts earned him the nickname ” Flying Cat”.