Former Green Eagles Goalkeeper, Peter Fregene, Dies at 77

Legendary Nigerian goalkeeper, Peter Fregene, has passed away at the age of 77. His death was confirmed on Sunday by his close friend and fellow ex-international, Segun Odegbami, who revealed that Fregene died after a prolonged illness.

 

In a heartfelt message shared by Odegbami, he explained that Fregene had been on life support for the past week. "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," Odegbami wrote.

 

Fregene, affectionately known as "Apo" for his remarkable agility and reflexes, was a key figure in Nigerian football during the 1960s and 1970s. He represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and was a stalwart in the national team for several years.

His contributions to the sport and his skill between the posts left an indelible mark on Nigerian football history.

 

Odegbami also extended his gratitude to those who supported Fregene during his illness. "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 said.

 

Peter Fregene’s death marks the end of an era, and he will be remembered not only for his exceptional talent but also for the legacy he leaves behind in Nigerian sports.