Chidozie Awaziem and Obinna Nwobodo played crucial roles as FC Cincinnati powered to a thrilling 4-2 comeback victory over New York City in gameweek two of the Leagues Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
Awaziem, who only joined FC Cincinnati last week after switching from Portugal’s Boavista, has now been involved in two wins in his first two games for his new club.
The Super Eagles defender delivered a perfect defensive performance on his debut to inspire FC Cincy to a fine 1-0 victory over Querétaro on August 2.
However, coach Patrick Noonan started Awaziem, who played all 90 minutes in his first game, on the bench against New York City.
Despite Nwobodo starting for FC Cincinnati, the visitors took the lead in the 25th minute.
Awaziem was introduced at the start of the second half, but it did not stop New York City from extending their lead just past the hour mark following an error from goalkeeper Walters.
However, Cincinnati began the turnaround in the 79th minute when Czech Republic’s Pavel Bucha fired a low shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.
Nwobodo claimed an assist for the second goal, but the hard part of the job was done by Argentine forward Yamil Rodrigo Assad, who scored with an excellent strike.
Awaziem then got his name on the assist board as Japan’s Yuya Kubo received the Nigerian’s fine forward pass before turning to send the strike that made it 3-0 for the Orange and Blues.
There was still enough time for Sergio Santos to put the icing on the cake with a well-timed run and finish in the 89th minute.
After enduring three straight defeats in July, FC Cincinnati will be pleased with their two victories in August, coinciding with the arrival of lucky charm Awaziem.
The club now has six points in their East 1 division to finish ahead of their rivals and book their place in the Leagues Cup Round of 32.
