CINCINNATI — FC Cincinnati has acquired defender Chidozie Awaziem in a transfer from the Portuguese Primeira Liga’s Boavista FC through at least 2025.
The 27-year-old from Nigeria, according to an FC Cincinnati press release, has appeared professionally in Europe almost 300 times.
“We’re delighted to have Chidozie join the club,” said Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati general manager, in the release. “He's a talented defender with extensive experience at the European and international level. His quality, character and leadership will be a valuable addition to our group, and I’d like to welcome him to Cincinnati.”
The release continues laying out his accomplishments, including his participation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and an appearance in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.
“It's been a wonderful time I’ve had with Cincinnati,” Awaziem said in the release. “I see the love the fans and everybody has for soccer. I see all the games that Cincinnati have been playing, and this has motivated me a lot to be part of this team and to feel like what it is to be a player for FC Cincinnati and represent this wonderful and amazing club.”
At Boavista, he made 59 appearances across three seasons. He has signed a contract with Cincinnati through 2025 but has options for 2026 and 2027.