Chidozie Awaziem shines for Konyaspor: Will Chelle recall Super Eagles defender?

Chidozie Awaziem boosted his chances for a Super Eagles recall after scoring twice in Konyaspor’s 2-0 win over Gençlerbirliği in the Turkish Süper Lig on Sunday.

The Nigerian defender scored once in each half to end Konyaspor’s three-match winless run and lift the club out of the relegation zone.

With the Super Eagles preparing for their November fixtures against Tanzania, Awaziem has given head coach Éric Chelle a reason to reconsider his options in defence. However, a return to the squad is far from certain.

Chidozie Awaziem leads Konyaspor to vital victory

Chidozie Awaziem, who left Nantes for Konyaspor in the summer, opened the scoring in the 43rd minute. The Nigeria international met Deniz Türüç’s cushioned header inside the box with a first-time volley into the bottom corner.

He struck again in the 56th minute after Gençlerbirliği failed to clear a Konyaspor corner. The defender reacted quickest in the crowded penalty area to turn the loose ball into the net from close range.

Awaziem, one of Nigeria’s major contingent in Turkey, finished the match with two goals from two shots and earned a 9.4 rating from Sofascore. The victory moved Konyaspor up to 14th in the table, with eight points from nine matches.

His goals against Gençlerbirliği showed why he could be useful to the Super Eagles beyond his defensive duties. His strength in the air and ability to threaten from set-pieces offer another option when Nigeria need a goal.

Why Chelle could still snub Awaziem

Despite his performance in Turkey, Awaziem faces competition for a place in the Super Eagles squad.

Chelle has Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi among his established centre-back options. He also can call Emmanuel Fernandez and Benjamin Nwaiwu as backup options.

The coach may prefer to stick with defenders who know his system, particularly as Nigeria prepare for important November fixtures.

Awaziem’s versatility could work in his favour. He can play at centre-back and right-back, giving Chelle another option if injuries or suspensions affect his defensive plans.

However, the coach also has to manage his responsibilities with Nigeria’s U-23 Olympic Eagles, who have important assignments during the November international window. That could make squad planning more complicated and encourage him to rely on players already familiar with his approach.

Awaziem has made his case with two goals and a match-winning display. Whether Chelle gives him another opportunity with the Super Eagles will depend on the coach’s defensive options and the role he sees for the Konyaspor defender in his plans.