In this edition of In The Spotlight, KickOff speaks to former Kaizer Chiefs and Nigeria national team goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi.
Akpeyi is currently searching for a new team after being released by Betway Premiership club.
Who is the best footballer you’ve played with in SA?
"Since I started playing in South Africa, I would say Collins Mbesuma. When he is in the box, he rarely misses."
Who was your role model growing up?
"I never had a specific role model. I wasn’t a football fan, I just played in my early years. But as I grew older, I started to admire players like Iker Casillas."
Which team do you prefer, the Super Eagles or Kaizer Chiefs?
"Kaizer Chiefs. Playing for them brought me into the limelight. It was the foundation of my career, and that’s when Nigeria began to believe in me and my experience."
Which country do you love more, Nigeria or South Africa?
"Nigeria, of course. In Nigeria, to get an opportunity, you really have to work hard. That’s what drives excellence."
Which player gave you a tough time on the pitch?
"When I played at Chippa United, I found Khama Billiat and Keagan Dolly from Mamelodi Sundowns to be quite challenging to face."
What was your best game in the PSL?
"Many people think it's the Soweto Derby, but my best game was against Polokwane City. The match had only gone for 40 minutes when Itumeleng Khune got injured in the first half. I came on to replace him and won the Man of the Match award."
Which player did you find it easy to play against?
"Ha ha ha! No, I don’t want to call anyone out."
Which teams were particularly tough opponents?
"Orlando Pirates and Sundowns were always challenging. You had to prepare differently for those matches because of the atmosphere, especially when I was at Chiefs."
Who is the best player in South Africa right now?
"Relebohile Mofokeng. He’s young but has been creating chances and scoring for his team. I would skip Lucas Ribeiro because I think he’s leaving South Africa, but if he comes back, then it’s him."
Who do you consider the best goalkeeper in South Africa at the moment?
"Eish, now you’re putting me in the spotlight [laughs]. I would say Sage Stephens. I don't understand why he isn’t getting enough chances with Bafana Bafana. It seems we focus too much on age."
Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
