Zafer played for several clubs during his career including Sakaryaspor (1987–1990 and 2002–2003), Gençlerbirliği SK (1990–1996), Beşiktaş JK (1996–2001), Diyarbakırspor (2001–2002), Adanaspor (2004–2005), MKE Kırıkkalespor (2005–2006) and Daegu FC (2003–2004). He played for the Turkey national football team and was a player-participant at the 1996 UEFA European Championship. Since retiring in 2006, Zafer has been assistant manager for Kastamonuspor, Uşakspor and ABB Bugsaş SK.