Super Eagles ace joins Lille, Lyon, Paris FC stars in Ligue 1 Team of the Week

Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem has been named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Week after a commanding display for FC Nantes in their 3-0 victory over Olympique de Marseille, Soccernet.ng reports.

It was a weekend filled with standout performances across Ligue 1, and the Nigerian centre-back stood tall among some of the league’s biggest names, as put together by Sofascore.

Operating in a back three, Awaziem delivered a strong defensive performance, finishing with eight clearances, winning six duels, and completing 28 of his 32 passes. His reading of the game and positioning helped Nantes keep a clean sheet against one of the division’s most dangerous attacking sides.

Behind him, goalkeeper Patrik Carlgren produced one of the finest individual displays of the season. The Swedish shot-stopper made eight saves, seven from inside the box, and recorded 1.45 goals prevented, and indicator of just how crucial he was to Nantes’ win. His calmness under pressure and ability to organise the defence proved vital.

Elsewhere in defence, Lille OSC's Aïssa Mandi impressed with his passing range and attacking threat, while Malang Sarr put in a tireless performance for RC Lens, winning 11 duels and making key interceptions and tackles.

In midfield, Corentin Tolisso was at his brilliant best for Olympique Lyonnais in their 4-2 win over Rennes. He scored once, provided two assists, and controlled the tempo of the game with authority. Alongside him, Rudy Matondo of Paris FC scored twice in a 4-0 win over Brest, while Nantes forward Matthis Abline added a goal and an assist in the same match as Awaziem.

On the wings, Lyon ace Afonso Moreira brought energy and creativity, winning a penalty and drawing six fouls, while Lassine Sinayoko dazzled for AJ Auxerre with a goal, an assist, and five key passes in their win over Angers.

Up front, Sékou Mara led the line superbly with two goals and an assist, while Aiyegun Tosin made a big impact off the bench for FC Lorient, scoring in a 2-2 draw against Paris Saint-Germain.

Awaziem's Nantes battle Ligue 1 relegation

Awaziem has been a key addition to Nantes since joining in the summer of 2025 from MLS side Colorado Rapids. The Super Eagles defender, who previously had a loan spell at the club, has become a regular figure at the heart of the defence.

So far this season, he has made 25 league appearances, helping Nantes keep five clean sheets. His defensive numbers are particularly impressive, with his 177 clearances placing him among the best in the league, while his ability to block shots and read danger has given the team much-needed stability. The Nigeria international has also contributed going forward, with one goal and two assists, including a dramatic late equaliser against Lorient earlier in the campaign.

Despite his individual form, Nantes are still fighting for survival. They currently sit 17th in the table with 23 points from 32 matches, placing them in the automatic relegation zone. The gap to safety remains five points, meaning every match is now crucial.

Their recent win over Marseille has given them a fighting chance, but difficult fixtures against Lens and Toulouse lie ahead. Nantes will likely need to win both games and hope results elsewhere go in their favour to avoid the drop.