Awaziem’s Porto Return Post AFCON Delayed by Malaria

Nigerian international Chidozie Awaziem’s anticipated return to Boavista for the upcoming match against Chaves in the Portuguese Primeira Liga has been postponed due to a bout of malaria contracted during the final day of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON. Reports from various Portuguese media outlets, including Rádio e Televisão de Portugal, indicate that Awaziem has been unable to return to Porto following the tournament’s conclusion. The defender started experiencing symptoms on the day of the final, where the Super Eagles faced a defeat against the Elephants.

Despite being named in the matchday squad for the final against Ivory Coast, Awaziem did not participate in the game and displayed signs of physical weakness upon the team’s return to Abuja. Currently, he is coordinating with Boavista’s medical team and plans to travel to Portugal once he has fully recovered. Awaziem’s contribution to the 2023 AFCON was limited to a substitute appearance in the final group stage match against Guinea Bissau, where he replaced Ola Aina during stoppage time.

In related news, Awaziem’s teammate at Boavista, Bruno Onyemaechi, has already made his way back to Portugal and is expected to resume training with the Panthers on Friday. Despite being part of the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, Onyemaechi did not see any action during the tournament, as he was not selected to play by manager Jose Peseiro.

Editorial

The recent news of Chidozie Awaziem’s malaria diagnosis following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and risks professional athletes face, extending beyond the physical demands of their sports. Awaziem’s ordeal underscores the vulnerability of even the most elite athletes to health issues that can abruptly halt their careers and affect their teams’ preparations and strategies.

This incident brings to light the importance of comprehensive healthcare and support systems for athletes, especially when participating in international competitions across different continents where health risks may vary. It also highlights the resilience and dedication of players like Awaziem, who, despite their health battles, remain committed to returning to their clubs and contributing to their team’s successes.

Moreover, the situation with Awaziem and Onyemaechi reflects the broader narrative of African footballers’ impact in European leagues. Their journeys from the AFCON to their respective clubs in Portugal exemplify the global nature of football, where players navigate between continents, cultures, and competitions, enriching the sport with their diverse experiences and talents.

As we wish Awaziem a speedy recovery, we are reminded of the spirit of perseverance that defines the best of football. The game is not just about the glory on the pitch but also about overcoming the unexpected challenges off it. This incident, while unfortunate, reinforces the interconnectedness of health, well-being, and performance in professional sports, highlighting the need for continued attention to athletes’ health and safety.

Did You Know?

• Malaria is a leading cause of illness and death in many African countries, yet it is preventable and treatable.
• The Portuguese Primeira Liga, where Awaziem plays, is one of Europe’s oldest football leagues, established in 1934.
• The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the most prestigious football competitions in the world, first held in 1957.
• Boavista FC, Awaziem’s club, won the Primeira Liga once in the 2000-2001 season, marking one of the few times the championship has been won by a team outside the traditional Big Three in Portugal.
• Nigeria has a rich football history, with the Super Eagles winning the Africa Cup of Nations three times: in 1980, 1994, and 2013.