Chidozie Awaziem put in a solid defensive display but couldn't prevent Colorado Rapids from bowing out of the Concacaf Champions Cup following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in the early hours of Wednesday.
The Super Eagles centre-back played the full 90 minutes at BMO Stadium, forming a formidable backline alongside Keegan Rosenberry, Ian Murphy, and Reggie Cannon. Their defensive efforts largely kept former Arsenal and AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud and Venezuelan youngster David Martínez at bay.
Colorado Rapids held a 2-1 aggregate advantage going into the second leg and managed to keep LAFC quiet throughout the first half, going into the break with the tie still in their favor.
However, LAFC came out stronger in the second half, and just four minutes after the restart, David Martínez made a decisive run down the left flank before delivering a pinpoint cross into the box. American midfielder Mark Delgado capitalized on the opportunity, sliding the ball past Rapids' goalkeeper Zack Steffen to give LAFC a 1-0 lead.
With the aggregate score now 2-2, LAFC progressed to the next round on away goals, ending Colorado’s campaign in the Round of 16.
Despite the disappointing result, Awaziem has been a standout performer for Colorado Rapids since his €500,000 move from FC Cincinnati in January. He impressed in the first-leg victory and played a key role in Rapids’ goalless MLS opener against St. Louis City last weekend.
This marks Awaziem’s first defeat in a Rapids shirt, but his performances suggest he will be instrumental in their defensive setup this season. The 28-year-old Enugu-born defender made ten league appearances for Cincinnati last season, registering two assists.
With their Concacaf Champions Cup journey over, Colorado Rapids will now shift their focus to the MLS, where they host FC Dallas on March 1. Awaziem will be eager to maintain his fine form and help his team push for a strong domestic campaign.
Meanwhile, LAFC advances to the quarter-finals, where they will face fellow MLS side Columbus Crew in the next round.
Mark Delgado's first goal with @LAFC is a massive one! 😤
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) February 26, 2025
David Martinez sets up the score and LAFC leads on away goals. #ChampionsCuppic.twitter.com/olZA0DLx9t
