Super Eagles<\/a> defender Chidozie Awaziem<\/a> made an emphatic statement to new Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle with a commanding defensive display as Colorado Rapids secured a crucial 2-1 victory over LAFC in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup Round One clash, Soccernet.ng<\/a> reports<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The 28-year-old centre-back, who joined the Rapids from FC Cincinnati in January doe just under \u20ac500,000, was a rock at the heart of defence on his debut, helping his side to a first competitive win of 2025.<\/p>\n His performance will be closely noted by Chelle, who is currently assembling his squad for Nigeria\u2019s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe<\/a> in March.<\/p>\n Despite Chelle\u2019s expected focus on Europe-based players, Awaziem\u2019s strong showing in Major League Soccer and the Concacaf Champions Cup could put him in contention for a call-up.<\/p>\n READ MORE<\/strong>: Photos: Wife of Super Eagles defender\u00a0Chidozie Awaziem flaunts Burberry luxury bag worth Two Million Naira<\/a><\/p>\n A key member of the Super Eagles squad in recent years and a silver medallist at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Awaziem is determined to prove his worth to the Malian tactician as Nigeria aim to reignite their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.<\/p>\n \u2014 Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) February 19, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n The Rapids\u2019 victory was powered by a superb brace from Djordje Mihailovic, who continued his excellent record against LAFC. The midfielder, who has now recorded seven goal contributions (five goals, two assists) in six games against the Los Angeles side across multiple competitions, netted from the penalty spot before curling in a stunning free-kick.<\/p>\n A cold and cagey first half at Dick\u2019s Sporting Goods Park saw both defences dominate, with Awaziem playing a pivotal role in keeping LAFC\u2019s dangerous attack at bay.<\/p>\n Lining up alongside fellow new signing Ian Murphy, the Nigerian defender was composed and commanding, ensuring the hosts went into the break level at 0-0.<\/p>\n I asked Djordje Mihailovic about his thoughts on the performances of Reggie Cannon, Chido Awaziem, and Ian Murphy pic.twitter.com\/Hss4KEtj4p<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Keith Richards (@5280Keith) February 19, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n The game came to life in the second half as the Rapids seized control. The turning point arrived when K\u00e9vin Cabral was brought down inside the box, allowing Mihailovic to step up and dispatch the resulting penalty with confidence, sending LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris the wrong way.<\/p>\n The Rapids doubled their advantage in the 78th minute, again through Mihailovic. After drawing a foul 25 yards from goal, the midfielder stepped up and bent a perfectly executed free-kick into the top corner, leaving Lloris with no chance.<\/p>\n However, LAFC refused to go down without a fight. Veteran defender Aaron Long pulled one back for the visitors in the 85th minute, setting up a tense finish. Despite late pressure from LAFC, the Rapids held firm to secure a vital first-leg advantage.<\/p>\n Chido Awaziem on what it means to beat LAFC in his first match with the Rapids pic.twitter.com\/LUI4IzRcI6<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Soccer](\"https:\/\/soccernet.ng\/app\/uploads\/2025\/02\/imago1039548468-scaled.jpg\")
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Super Eagles defender impresses as Rapids secure first win of 2025 in style<\/h4>\n
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