Soccer

Awaziem scores on Alanyaspor debut against Giresunspor

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The Super Eagle did not disappoint against Hakan Keles’ men, finding the net in his first match for the Alanya-based team

Chidozie Awaziem scored a header in his first Super Lig game to power Alanyaspor to a 1-0 victory over Giresunspor on Monday evening.

The Nigerian international joined the Turkish elite division side on a loan from Portuguese club Boavista, until the end of 2021-22.

He was immediately drafted into the club’s starting XI by manager Bulent Korkmaz – partnering with Juan Fran, Nemanja Milunovic and Cristian Borja in the defence – as they hoped to return to winning ways following defeats to Altay and Hatayspor.

It took him eight minutes to make his impact felt after heading a well-taken free kick taken by Emre Akbaba past goalkeeper Onurcan Piri.

Although the hosts could have scored more goals they were forced to pay for their ineptitude in front of goal.

The performance of visiting Giresunspor in the second period was better, but they were unable restore parity and returned home with their heads bowed after full-time.

While Awaziem was in action from start to finish, Senegal’s Famara Diedhiou – who was named in the line-up – made way for compatriot Khouma Babacar with 15 minutes left on the clock.

Angola international Wilson Eduardo was introduced for Daniel Candeias in the 56th minute, while Mauritania’s El Mami Tetah was not considered for action.

For the visitors, Mali’s Fousseni Diabate played all 90 minutes as Senegal’s Souleymane Doukara was replaced by countryman Ibrahima Balde in the 68th minute.

Mali’s Hamidou Traore was brought in for Joey Pelupessy early in the second half while Senegal duo of Younousse Sankhare and Mamadou Diarra were not dressed for the game.

Alanyaspor president Hasan Cavusoglu claimed he had no doubt about Awaziem’s ability to help the squad.

“Awaziem arrived in Alanya yesterday night after the Nigeria match. He’s a footballer we believe will contribute to our team,” he told the media.

“It’s not easy to transfer players like that. He almost made it to Besiktas last year, but he was fortunate. We think we make an excellent team.

“I believe that Alanyaspor will return to its old days with our new manager.

“We lost two games, but we’re still in the league. We will work together with Awaziem, our technical team, and the Alanyaspor community to bring our team back to its rightful place.

“Awaziem is now a part of Alanyaspor. We’re together until the end of the season. I think we’ll have a good season.

Alanyaspor will be looking to build on this result when it takes on Galatasaray on September 19. Giresunspor, who lost their last seven matches in all competitions to Konyaspor, will try to rebound to winning ways. 

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