Daniel Akpeyi takes key coaching role at Future of Africa FC

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Former Nigeria international Daniel Akpeyi has embarked on a new chapter in his football career, transitioning from player to coach after months without a club.

The 39-year-old former Super Eagles goalkeeper, who parted ways with South Africa’s Marumo Gallants at the end of last season, is now set to impart his extensive experience as the Goalkeeper Coach for Future of Africa FC, a newly promoted team in the GDL (Ghana Division League).

Akpeyi’s career has been marked by impressive stints at top clubs across Africa. Starting with Gabros International and Heartland FC in Nigeria, his move to South Africa in 2015 with Chippa United marked the beginning of a distinguished career in the Premier Division.

Known for his consistency, leadership, and strong shot-stopping abilities, Akpeyi earned a reputation as one of the continent’s most dependable goalkeepers.

His time with Kaizer Chiefs, in particular, cemented his legacy. In the 2019/20 season, he kept nine clean sheets, his best in a single campaign, and was named Absa Premiership Player of the Month for both September and October.

Akpeyi also had a brief spell with Moroka Swallows, further establishing himself as a key figure in South African football.

Now, as Goalkeeper Coach at Future of Africa FC, Akpeyi is poised to play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of goalkeeping talent.

His appointment is seen as a major step for the ambitious club, which aims to build a strong foundation in the GDL and compete at higher levels in the coming years.

Akpeyi’s wealth of experience, his calm presence, sharp reflexes, and in-depth knowledge of the game will be invaluable in shaping the club’s future.

His leadership on and off the pitch, paired with his professionalism and discipline, is expected to help nurture young goalkeepers and foster a competitive environment for the team.

Future of Africa’s decision to bring in the seasoned goalkeeper is seen as a significant boost to their development project, with Akpeyi’s mentorship expected to elevate the club’s technical capacity and prepare them for the challenges ahead.

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

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