The South Africa international has been Chiefs No 1 for over ten years, but he has played second fiddle to Akpeyi this season.
Despite losing his No 1 spot to Daniel Akpeyi, Itumeleng Khune has showered praises on Super Eagles goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi for his match-winning performance in the Soweto Derby.
Kaizer Chiefs took home the bragging rights in their clash against arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates. Lebogang Manyama’s 30th-minute strike from outside the box sealed the win for Ernst Middendorp’s men.
However, Chiefs have Akpeyi to thank as he made a series of saves to keep Orlando Pirates at bay. His performance in the encounter earned him the man of the match award.
Akpeyi joined Chiefs from Chippa United this season, but he was signed as an understudy to Khune. However, Khune picked up a longterm injury which resulted in the Super Eagles goalkeeper taking over the number one role.
Although Khune has since returned from his layoff, Middendorp’s has stuck with Akpeyi. There were calls for Khune to be reinstated ahead of the Soweto derby, but the former Warri Wolves goalkeeper was given the nod.
However, despite losing the No 1 spot to the Nigeria international, Khune praised Akpeyi’s heroics on Saturday. The 32-year-old took to his Twitter account to praise Akpeyi’s match-winning performance.
https://twitter.com/IIKHUNE_32_16/status/1233791092279119873
With the win, Chiefs extend their lead at the top of ABSA Premiership to seven points.
