Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem scored twice to inspire Konyaspor to a 2-0 victory over Gençlerbirliği in their Turkish Super Lig clash on Sunday.
The 29-year-old broke the deadlock in the first half before doubling his tally after the break to help his side secure all three points, ending their three-game winless and goalless run in the league.
Konyaspor started the game on the front foot, dominating possession and creating several chances. However, they had to wait until the 43rd minute to find the breakthrough, with Awaziem putting them ahead to give his side a deserved 1-0 lead at the interval.
Gençlerbirliği enjoyed more possession after the restart as they searched for an equaliser. Despite their attacking efforts, the hosts extended their advantage in the 56th minute when Awaziem struck again from close range after the visitors failed to clear a corner kick.
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Gençlerbirliği had a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit in the 72nd minute after Tiago Gouveia was fouled inside the box. Franco Tongya stepped up to take the resulting penalty but was denied by goalkeeper Bahadir Han Gündördü, who produced an excellent save to preserve Konyaspor’s two-goal lead.
The visitors continued to push for a breakthrough in the closing stages, but Konyaspor remained organised defensively to secure a clean sheet for the fourth time in their last five games as they held on to claim all three points.
The victory lifts Konyaspor out of the relegation zone and into 14th place in the Super Lig standings, with eight points from nine matches. Gençlerbirliği also have eight points but drop to 16th following their fifth defeat of the season.
Konyaspor face a tough test in their next fixture when they host reigning champions Galatasaray on Friday. Meanwhile, Gençlerbirliği will turn their attention to the Turkish Cup, where they welcome Karaköprü Belediyespor on Thursday.
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