Super Eagles surprise sub Awaziem goes from zero to hero in France

Chidozie Awaziem delivered a dramatic twist to his weekend as the Super Eagles defender bounced back from criticism on international duty to rescue a crucial point for Nantes.

His late header turned a nightmare evening into a redemption story that instantly grabbed headlines in France.

Awaziem’s afternoon against Lorient began in disastrous fashion. The 28-year-old, fresh off a controversial substitute appearance in Nigeria’s World Cup playoff defeat to DR Congo, which drew heavy criticism for coach Eric Chelle, found himself at the centre of trouble once again.

Just before halftime, he mistakenly turned the ball into his own net, gifting Lorient the lead and silencing the Nantes supporters at the Stade de la Beaujoire.

But the defender refused to let the story end there. In the dying moments of the match, Awaziem rose highest to head home a dramatic equaliser, securing a 1–1 draw and sparking celebrations across the stadium.

It was his first goal since rejoining Nantes in the summer, and his performance went beyond the late strike. Awaziem completed a game-high 92 passes and posted an impressive 93% accuracy, the best among players who featured for at least 45 minutes.

The point keeps Nantes hovering just outside the relegation zone, sitting 15th with 11 points from 13 matches, level with Lorient but ahead on goal difference.

Having started every league match this season, Awaziem has quickly become one of the pillars of the team.

The Canaries are now unbeaten in their last two games and will hope Awaziem’s renewed confidence becomes a catalyst for better form as they prepare for a tough trip to Lyon on November 30.

Lorient, winless in seven, face an equally difficult test against Nice, also looking to avoid the drop themselves.