Tremendous Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem made an emphatic assertion to new Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle with a commanding defensive show as Colorado Rapids secured an important 2-1 victory over LAFC within the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup Spherical One conflict, Soccernet.ng stories.
The 28-year-old centre-back, who joined the Rapids from FC Cincinnati in January doe just below €500,000, was a rock on the coronary heart of defence on his debut, serving to his aspect to a primary aggressive win of 2025.
His efficiency shall be carefully famous by Chelle, who’s at present assembling his squad for Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers in opposition to Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
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Regardless of Chelle’s anticipated deal with Europe-based gamers, Awaziem’s sturdy exhibiting in Main League Soccer and the Concacaf Champions Cup may put him in competition for a call-up.
READ MORE: Pictures: Spouse of Tremendous Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem flaunts Burberry luxurious bag price Two Million Naira
A key member of the Tremendous Eagles squad in recent times and a silver medallist on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Awaziem is set to show his price to the Malian tactician as Nigeria goal to reignite their 2026 World Cup qualifying marketing campaign.
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) February 19, 2025
Tremendous Eagles defender impresses as Rapids safe first win of 2025 in fashion
The Rapids’ victory was powered by an excellent brace from Djordje Mihailovic, who continued his glorious document in opposition to LAFC. The midfielder, who has now recorded seven purpose contributions (5 objectives, two assists) in six video games in opposition to the Los Angeles aspect throughout a number of competitions, netted from the penalty spot earlier than curling in a shocking free-kick.
A chilly and cagey first half at Dick’s Sporting Items Park noticed each defences dominate, with Awaziem taking part in a pivotal function in maintaining LAFC’s harmful assault at bay.
Lining up alongside fellow new signing Ian Murphy, the Nigerian defender was composed and commanding, guaranteeing the hosts went into the break stage at 0-0.
I requested Djordje Mihailovic about his ideas on the performances of Reggie Cannon, Chido Awaziem, and Ian Murphy pic.twitter.com/Hss4KEtj4p
— Keith Richards (@5280Keith) February 19, 2025
The sport got here to life within the second half because the Rapids seized management. The turning level arrived when Kévin Cabral was introduced down contained in the field, permitting Mihailovic to step up and dispatch the ensuing penalty with confidence, sending LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris the incorrect means.
The Rapids doubled their benefit within the 78th minute, once more by means of Mihailovic. After drawing a foul 25 yards from purpose, the midfielder stepped up and bent a wonderfully executed free-kick into the highest nook, leaving Lloris with no probability.
Nonetheless, LAFC refused to go down with out a battle. Veteran defender Aaron Lengthy pulled one again for the guests within the eighty fifth minute, organising a tense end. Regardless of late stress from LAFC, the Rapids held agency to safe a significant first-leg benefit.
Chido Awaziem on what it means to beat LAFC in his first match with the Rapids pic.twitter.com/LUI4IzRcI6
— Keith Richards (@5280Keith) February 19, 2025
Tremendous Eagles star Awaziem’s assertion efficiency
For Awaziem, the match is a big milestone.
Not solely was it his debut for Colorado Rapids, however it additionally served as a well timed reminder of his defensive skill forward of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers. His positioning, aerial dominance, and skill to marshal the backline had been instrumental in maintaining LAFC’s assault quiet for a lot of the competition.
With Chelle poised to call his first squad for the Tremendous Eagles, Awaziem’s strong show may bolster his case for inclusion.
Nigeria, determined for victories after a sluggish begin to their qualifying marketing campaign, will want defensive stability, and the previous Boavista defender has proven he can present simply that.
Wanting forward, Awaziem and the Rapids will now flip their focus to their MLS season opener in opposition to St. Louis CITY SC on February 22 earlier than touring to Los Angeles for the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup tie on February 25.
