Former Super Eagles Goalie, Wilfred Agbonavbare Dies From Cancer In Spain

BEVERLY HILLS, January 27, (THEWILL) – Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Edo State born Wilfred Agbonavbare died on Tuesday morning from cancer at the Príncipe de Asturias Hospital in Alcalá de Henares in Spain, where he played and retired from the game.

Agbonavbare, who played for Rayo Vallecano in the 90's, according to reports, had been receiving therapy at a hospital in Tampa, Florida, United States of America, but was transported back to his Spain base a few days ago when it became apparent that he would not survive the disease.

He was a member of the National U-21 team to Mexico, Flying Eagles '83 squad, silver medalist at 1984 African Nations Cup and gold medalist at Tunisia '94.

In Nigeria, Agbonavbare played for the defunct New Nigeria Bank FC of Benin and the BCC Lions FC of Gboko. In 1990 he moved to Spain where he played for Rayo Vallecano FC of Madrid and lower level team Ecija Balompie, where he retired after the team was relegated. He subsequently settled into Madrid with his family. His wife also died from cancer three years ago, the deceased soccer star said in an email sent to a local newspaper in Nigeria.

“I was relieved of my job after I was diagnosed with cancer. My wife died of breast cancer three years ago and when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, I spent all the money I made playing professional football on her medical bills to keep her treatment uninterrupted. Consequently, I had to send my three children to Nigeria because of my health condition,” Agbonavbare said.