38-year-old Super Eagles star brushes off retirement talks amid praise from South African legend

Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has suggested he has no plans to retire from football just yet, despite facing limited opportunities on the pitch in recent months, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 38-year-old, who last played for South African side Marumo Gallants, found himself out of action since September after enduring a tough outing against Mamelodi Sundowns, where he conceded three goals before being substituted.

Photo by IMAGO

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

His subsequent absence from the starting XI has fueled speculation about his future.

However, Akpeyi recently posted a video compilation of his best saves on Instagram, showing highlights from his time with the Super Eagles and Kaizer Chiefs.

The video tagged ‘Joy is coming‘ caught the attention of his former teammate and South African icon Itumeleng Khune, who took to social media to heap praise on Akpeyi.

“One of the best to grace our shores. Respect, Papa D,” Khune wrote, resharing Akpeyi’s video on his Instagram stories.

Akpeyi responded warmly, saying,

“Skipper, you are simply the best. Big love.”

Akpeyi’s time with Marumo Gallants has been far from ideal.

He joined the club at the start of the season following their acquisition of Moroka Swallows’ league status.

Despite early appearances, including a substitute cameo against Kaizer Chiefs and starts against Golden Arrows and Sundowns, injuries and form have sidelined Akpeyi since September.

LAGOS, NIGERIA. NOVEMBER 16: Akpeyi Daniel, Super Eagles of Nigeria during the 2022 World Cup Qualifier between Nigeria and Cape Verde Cape Verde at Teslim Balogun Stadium on November 16, 2021 in Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO

He has only made the bench once for the Gallants, who are struggling defensively this season.

According to SNL24 reports, Akpeyi is on his way out of Marumo Gallants, raising questions about his next move even as his posted video reveals he is still expecting a coming joy.

FRANCE OUT July 6, 2019: Daniel Akpeyi of Nigeria celebrating Nigeria scoring to 3-2 during the 2019 African Cup of Nations match between Cameroon and Nigeria at the Alexanddria Stadium in Alexandria, Egypt. /CSM. Cameroon v Nigeria – 2019 African Cup of Nations. Photo by IMAGO

Despite his recent challenges, Akpeyi’s career boasts notable achievements, including 18 caps for Nigeria and a bronze medal at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he was the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper.

However, Akpeyi has not featured for Nigeria since the 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs against Ghana.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

Share
Published by
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Recent Posts

Super Eagles call-up? Nathan Tella breaks silence on Chelle’s selection

Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to return to the Nigerian national… Read More

1 hour ago

Can Akpom save Van Nistelrooy’s job? Leicester close in on Super Eagles-eligible striker

Leicester City are edging closer to securing the signing of Super Eagles-eligible striker Chuba Akpom… Read More

4 hours ago

Napoli reject first official bid for Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen amid Arsenal and Man United link

Napoli have turned down an initial €65 million bid from Galatasaray for Victor Osimhen, with… Read More

6 hours ago

Sevilla FC: Nigerian prospect Ola Great receives trial invitation from La Liga club

Nigerian footballer Ola Great has received an official trial invitation from the Spanish La Liga… Read More

6 hours ago

Former Super Eagles midfielder reveals what Nigeria need to win AFCON 2025

Former Super Eagles midfielder, Sylvanus Okpala, has revealed what the Nigerian team need to emerge… Read More

11 hours ago