Former Nigerian international and Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has officially confirmed his retirement from football after a decade-long career in the Betway Premiership.
After arriving in South Africa from Nigerian club Warri Wolves FC in 2015, the goalkeeper enjoyed a distinguished decade-long career in the South African top-flight. Throughout his tenure in the PSL, he represented Chippa United, Kaizer Chiefs, Moroka Swallows, and Marumo Gallants. He concluded his South African career with over 220 appearances across all competitions and an impressive record of 77 clean sheets.
His most notable tenure was with Chippa, where he made 109 appearances, recorded 35 clean sheets, and conceded 105 goals. It was this performance that earned him a move to Kaizer Chiefs. And despite his time with a powerhouse like Amakhosi, he concluded his South African career without securing any major silverware.
However, his performances in the PSL earned him recognition in his home country, where he went on to earn 19 caps for the Super Eagles. His earlier career in Nigeria included spells with Gabros International FC, Nasarawa United FC, and Heartland FC.
‘I HAVE RETIRED,’ DANIEL AKPEYI CONFIRMS PLAYING CAREER END
He reflected on his journey on Tuesday while attending the 2026 Toyota Cup launch at Naturena Village. He has been named to the Kaizer Chiefs legends team, which is set to face the Jozi Masters in a curtain-raiser match. The event will take place on 26 July 2026 at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace in Rustenburg, leading up to the main clash between Amakhosi and Zimbabwe’s Scottland FC.
Ahead of his first appearance in a Kaizer Chiefs’ legends exhibition match, the 39-year-old confirmed he had hung up his gloves.
“It feels exciting to be part of this team. I’m privileged to be here so soon, compared to others who spent years here and won trophies. That’s what makes you a legend. I’m grateful for the opportunity,” said Akpeyi. “I’m surprised to be standing here talking about the legends of Kaizer Chiefs.
But I’ve retired from active football and started my coaching courses. Now I’m just waiting for the opportunity to start working.”
Akpeyi spent the final moments of his career at Gallants before parting ways with the club at the end of the 2024/25 season.
In October 2025, Akpeyi revealed his retirement plans to FARPost, saying he is keen to join the dugout as a goalkeepers’ coach. At that time, he held a CAF D Coaching Licence, with plans to pursue the CAF C Licence in 2026.
RELATED STORY: Daniel Akpeyi reveals next steps after Marumo Gallants exit