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Super Eagles centre-back Chidozie Awaziem marked his return to Nantes with an assured defensive display, even as the club slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian international, who previously spent the 2017–18 season on loan at the French side, rejoined Nantes this summer in a €850,000 move from Colorado Rapids.
This second debut came under the spotlight against the defending champions, and Awaziem looked composed in the heart of defence alongside teenager Tylel Tati.
While PSG inevitably dictated the flow of the match with 70% possession and 11 attempts at goal, Nantes showed resilience at the back. Awaziem’s organisation and composure helped limit Luis Enrique’s side to just one clear-cut chance, with Vitinha’s deflected strike in the 67th minute proving decisive.
Statistically, the 28-year-old’s contribution was telling. He won three of his four duels, recorded a 77% pass completion rate from 48 passes, and touched the ball 56 times. Defensively, he chipped in with two clearances, two tackles, one interception, and a crucial blocked shot. Significantly, he was only beaten once in one-on-one situations.
Although Nantes failed to register a single shot on target, the team showed their capacity for discipline and defensive grit, qualities they will need in abundance this season.
For Awaziem, the evening represented a personal triumph, showing the maturity and leadership he has developed since his first spell at the club.
A former Porto and Boavista defender, Awaziem completed the full 90 minutes against PSG.
Nantes will now turn their attention to their next Ligue 1 fixture against Strasbourg.
