CAPE TOWN – NIGERIAN goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi may be one of three players in the Kaizer Chiefs squad that have had the privilege of playing in a CAF Champions League final – but the only one not to have won it.
The other two Chiefs players – both formerly of Mamelodi Sundowns who have Champions League winners’ medals are Zimbabwean Khama Billiat and Colombian Leonardo Castro.
“The achievement of playing in a CAF Champions League final has brought the smiles back to supporters who have been patient all these years.
“I have always looked forward to playing the final again.
“I have tried with different teams which were eliminated in the early stages. Now, with hard work and determination, we are in the final again. I am grateful for this moment.”
“It has been an interesting and exciting journey. One of my dreams in my career was to play in the Champions League final and win it.
“The last time I was in the final was in 2009 with one of my previous teams, and we lost to TP Mazembe.”
Akpeyi was also mindful of Chief’s long-suffering supporters who have not celebrated a trophy triumph in six years. “I must applaud the fans for their patience over all these years,” said Akpeyi.