Switzerland head coach, Murat Yakin, has confirmed that Nigerian-born defender, Manuel Akanji will no longer be included among the team’s penalty takers, according to Bold.
He stated this after the Inter Milan centre-back missed one of the spot-kicks during the dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 16 victory over Colombia.
Akanji, Switzerland international born to a Nigerian father, was the sole Swiss player to miss from the penalty spot in the shootout, sending his attempt soaring over the crossbar.
Nevertheless, Switzerland managed to bounce back from this setback, with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel making a vital save, and Rubin Vargas successfully converting the decisive penalty, propelling the Europeans into the quarter-finals, where they will compete against Argentina.
After the match, Yakin revealed that Akanji had already communicated his decision to withdraw from penalty responsibilities following another unfortunate miss in a significant international tournament.
The Switzerland manager recognized the defender’s disappointment but commended his leadership and overall contributions, asserting that the penalty miss does not lessen his significance to the national team.
Akanji’s strong ties to Nigeria have been evident throughout his career.
Born in Switzerland to a Nigerian father and a Swiss mother, the centre-back had the option to represent both nations before ultimately choosing to commit to the European country.
Despite his allegiance to the Swiss national team, Akanji has consistently expressed his love for his Nigerian heritage.
A prominent symbol of this connection is a tattoo of the Super Eagles crest on his arm, serving as a lasting tribute to his father’s homeland.
The former Manchester City defender continues to be an essential member of Murat Yakin’s squad as they gear up for a highly anticipated World Cup quarter-final clash against Argentina.