AFCON Hero Hangs Up Gloves: Ex-Super Eagles Goalkeeper Confirms Retirement
Nigerian goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has officially announced his retirement from professional football, confirming his transition into coaching. Known for his tenure at Chippa United and his role in the Super Eagles' 2019 AFCON bronze finish, Akpeyi is now pursuing coaching opportunities, potentially with the national team.
Renowned Nigerian goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi, has officially announced his retirement from professional football, drawing the curtain on a career that spanned over a decade and saw him represent both club and country with distinction. This announcement marks a significant transition for the athlete, who is now poised to embark on a new chapter in his football journey.
Before the rise of Stanley Nwabali, Akpeyi was a stalwart between the sticks for South African club Chippa United. He spent a notable four years with the club after making his move from Warri Wolves in the Nigeria Premier Football League. During his impactful tenure at Chippa United, Akpeyi simultaneously became a regular fixture for the Super Eagles, making his competitive debut for Nigeria in 2016 during an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Egypt. Under the guidance of then-coach Gernot Rohr, Akpeyi often rotated the starting goalkeeper role with Ikechukwu Ezenwa, who was then playing in the NPFL.
Akpeyi's most prominent international contribution came as the first-choice goalkeeper for Nigeria during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. He played a pivotal role in leading the Super Eagles to a third-place finish, securing an AFCON bronze medal. While his overall performance in the tournament was deemed decent, his showing in the semi-final loss to eventual champions, Algeria, remains a subject of debate among fans. In total, Akpeyi made 19 appearances for the three-time African champions and was part of Nigeria's squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, though he did not feature in any of the team's three matches.
Following his successful stint at Chippa United, Akpeyi continued his club career in South Africa, playing for esteemed clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs, Moroka Swallows, and Marumo Gallants. He concluded his active playing career last year with Marumo Gallants and has remained inactive since then, leading to anticipation regarding his next steps.
Confirming his new professional direction, Akpeyi announced during a South African football event that he had