Chidozie Awaziem suffered the disappointment of not ending his breakthrough season in Europe with a trophy as FC Porto crashed to a 2-4 penalty loss to SC Braga in the finals of the Portuguese Cup.
19 year old Awaziem is one of the few bright spark in what has been a disappointing season for FC Porto going by their pedigree in Portugal.
They were hoping victory in the cup will pacify their fans but despite rallying back from two goals down to draw 2-2 to take the game into extra time, they were unlucky to lose 2-4 on penalties after both teams remain tied after extra time.
Awaziem was substituted for Ruben Neves in the 46th minute in what appears to be a tactical switch by coach Jose Peseiro when Porto were two goals down and watched on as his team missed three spot kicks during the shoot out.
Despite the disappointment of losing the league and cup title in Portugal. His fine form in the games he has played earned him a call up to the senior national team of Nigeria, less than a year after training with the U-17 team without knowing he isn’t eligible for the team.
Signed from El-Kanemi Juniors of Jos 18 months ago, He has grown into one of the most respected teen centre defenders in Europe after he was converted from his initial role as a defensive midfielder.
Managed by fast rising Nigeria agent Babawo Mohammed he recently signed a five year contract extension with FC Porto with a release clause of €20m.
*Daniel Martins
