Super Eagles defender, Chidozie Awaziem made his return to FC Nantes with a starting role in their Ligue 1 opener against Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday at the Stade de la Beaujoire.
The Canaries produced a disciplined display against the champions but slipped to a narrow 1–0 defeat in front of their home crowd.
The only goal of the contest arrived in the 67th minute when Vitinha’s strike from distance deflected off Awaziem and wrong-footed goalkeeper Anthony Lopes.
The moment proved decisive, overshadowing what had been a solid outing for the Nigerian international.
Awaziem, who rejoined Nantes this summer, looked assured for large spells of the contest, showing composure and strong positioning at the heart of defence.
Although his unfortunate deflection settled the tie, the 28-year-old’s display offered encouragement for the season ahead.
Despite the unfortunate outcome, his presence was a positive sign for Nantes as they look to stabilize their backline this season.
Nantes struggled defensively last season, conceding 52 goals in 34 league games.
Awaziem’s return could provide much-needed stability at the heart of defence.
He last played for Nantes in the 2017/18 season while on loan from Portuguese giants FC Porto.
The French club finished 9th that season and have failed to place above that position ever since.
Nantes also conceded 41 league goals that year, their second-lowest tally since 2015/16.
The Canaries will now shift focus to their next Ligue 1 fixture away at Strasbourg, with Awaziem expected to remain central to their defensive plans.
Next for Luís Castro’s men is the Ligue 1 fixture away at Strasbourg, with Awaziem expected to remain central to their plans as he settles into his second spell with the club.
