Akpeachukwu Apoche, the former Nigerian footballer and current coach of the Nigeria women's national team, has announced his retirement after a disappointing match against China in the AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Apoche made headlines last week when he injured himself during a training session at the Lagos Sports Stadium, causing him to miss out on several matches for the rest of the tournament.
However, Apoche's decision to retire comes as a surprise to many who had expected him to continue playing for another season.
The former striker was known for his technical skills and ability to control the ball, but injuries have always been a part of his career.
"I want to thank everyone who supported me during my career," Apoche said in a statement released by his agency. "I'm ready to move on and focus on other things."
Apoche's retirement will leave a significant void in the Nigerian football scene, especially given the fact that he has won numerous accolades with the Nigeria women's national team.
His departure will also mean that there will be no more opportunities for him to showcase his talents on the international stage.
Despite his retirement, Apoche remains a respected figure in Nigerian football and is widely regarded as one of the best players ever to wear the Nigerian flag.
It is clear that Apoche's retirement will not bring any immediate change to the way football is played in Nigeria, but it may provide some relief for fans who have grown tired of watching him play.
Overall, Apoche's retirement is a bittersweet moment for the Nigerian football community, as he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.