Former Nigerian football star Kanu Nwankwo has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai and Liverpool striker Diogo Jota.

Rufai passed away on Thursday after battling a long-term illness, while Jota and his brother, Andre, tragically lost their lives in a car crash in Spain.

In a heartfelt message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kanu described the losses as a major blow to the football community.

“A dark day in football today. We lost an African legend, Peter Rufai. May his soul rest well, Amen,” Kanu wrote.

He also offered his condolences to Rufai’s family, adding, “Hard to post this. May your spirit continue to inspire all of us and future generations. Rest in peace.”

In a separate post, the former Arsenal and Ajax forward mourned the Portuguese international, simply stating, “Sad sad sad. RIP Diogo Jota.”