Former Nigerian international Joseph Akpala has stepped down as the interim coach of Belgian club KV Kortrijk, according to Sporty9ja. Akpala took charge last month after the departure of head coach Bernd Storck and has been overseeing team training during his short stint. However, as the new season approaches, KV Kortrijk has appointed Edward Still, the former manager of Royale Sporting Charleroi, as their new head coach.
Edward Still, 32, has signed a two-season contract with KV Kortrijk and will officially take charge on Monday, leading his first training session. This will be Still’s third involvement in the Belgian Jupiler League. In his debut season in 2021, he guided Charleroi to a commendable sixth-place finish. He then coached Eupen last season but left the team shortly after securing their spot in the league. Now, Still assumes the responsibility of leading KV Kortrijk to success.
The specific role that will be assigned to Akpala by the club moving forward has not yet been disclosed. However, the 36-year-old former Super Eagles striker is well-acquainted with Belgian football, having had successful spells at Club Brugge, Royale Charleroi, and KV Oostende. With an impressive record of 90 goals in 286 league and playoff games in Belgium, Akpala considers the European nation his second home.
It remains to be seen how Akpala will contribute to KV Kortrijk in the future, but his experience and knowledge of Belgian football are assets that the club may utilize in some capacity. As for Edward Still, he has proven his capabilities as a coach in the Belgian Jupiler League and will now have the opportunity to lead KV Kortrijk to further success. The club and its fans will be eagerly anticipating the new season under Still’s guidance.
