Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has officially announced his retirement from professional football, drawing the curtain on a career that took him from Nigeria’s domestic league to the international stage and some of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
The 39-year-old confirmed his decision during the Toyota Cup launch at Naturena Village, revealing that he has already begun preparations for life on the touchline.
“I have retired from active football. I have started doing my courses as a coach; I’m only waiting for the opportunity to start working,” Akpeyi said.
His announcement brings to an end a professional journey that spanned almost two decades and saw him become one of Nigeria’s most familiar goalkeeping figures during the late 2010s.
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Akpeyi earned 18 appearances for the Super Eagles and was a prominent member of Nigeria’s squad under former coach Gernot Rohr.
One of the defining moments of his international career came at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a significant role as Nigeria secured a third-place finish and returned home with bronze medals. His performances during the tournament helped establish him as the team’s first choice goalkeeper during a crucial period for the national side.
He was also part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, although he did not feature during the tournament.
Akpeyi made his international debut in 2016 during an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Egypt and went on to compete for the number one jersey alongside fellow goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa.
Throughout his career, Akpeyi built a reputation as a resilient and experienced goalkeeper, overcoming criticism and intense scrutiny to remain a regular feature in both club and international football.
