The final whistle: Legendary goalkeeper Peter Fregene passes away at 77

• Peter Fregene, a legendary Nigerian goalkeeper, passed away at 77 after battling a long illness
• He represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics and served as the first-choice goalkeeper from 1968 to 1971
• Fregene’s condition became more publicised when Odegbami raised concerns about his health earlier in the week

The Nigerian football community mourns the loss of one of its greatest, although relatively known, Peter Fregene, a legendary goalkeeper known for his agility and reflexes passed away after a long battle with illness. 

His death was confirmed by Segun Odegbami, a close friend and ex-international, in an emotional Facebook post. Fregene, aged 77, drew his last breath in the presence of his devoted wife Tina and two of his children, marking the end of a life dedicated to football and national pride.

Earlier in the week, Odegbami had raised alarm about Fregene’s deteriorating condition, calling for urgent medical assistance, 

“He is still waiting for help to come in order to be moved by ambulance to the Ohara Teaching Hospital, Ohara, Delta State,” Odegbami revealed in his plea. 

Nigerian citizens responded with a wave of support, rallying to help the football legend, although overwhelmed by the public’s kindness, Odegbami clarified that he was not personally involved in raising funds, stating, 

“I am not raising or collecting any funds on behalf of Peter’s family,” he did, however, offer his support if the family requested it. Despite the efforts of many, Fregene's health continued to decline, leading to his passing while on life support on Sunday, October 13.

“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,” Odegbami heartbreakingly shared. 

Fregene who was fondly known amongst his peers as the “Flying Cat” for his cat-like reflexes, was an icon during the 1960s and 70s.

Fregene represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and was the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper from 1968 to 1971. He played for Lagos-based clubs ECN and Stationery Stores F.C., becoming a household name in Nigerian football. 

On behalf of fellow Nigerian footballers, Olympians, and friends, Odegbami thanked the public for their earlier support, 

“On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sports persons, his family, friends, fans, and a few incredible Nigerians that quietly rallied round... I say a big ‘thank you.”

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It marked the end of Nigeria’s 12-year drought at the Olympics, as Maiyegun became the first athlete to bring home a medal since the country began participating in the Games in 1952.