Chidozie Awaziem experienced his first defeat in the colours of Cincinnati FC, as Pat Noonan’s side fell 4-2 to Philadelphia Union, crashing out of the Leagues Cup.

Awaziem joined Cincinnati last month from Portuguese club Boavista on a one-year deal that runs through 2025.

Since his arrival, Cincinnati had enjoyed an impressive run, securing three consecutive victories against Querétaro, New York City FC, and Santos Laguna, reaching the competition’s Round of 16 for the first time in club history.

However, the former Boavista defender’s luck ran out early on Wednesday morning as Cincinnati battled in vain against Philadelphia Union.

After a goalless first half, the visitors struck twice in ten minutes, putting Cincinnati on the back foot.

The home side struggled to create offensive momentum until the 66th minute when Kevin Kelsy’s through ball set up Lucho Acosta.

Though Acosta’s initial shot was deflected, Boucha was on hand to slot the ball into the net, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

In the 80th minute, Acosta demonstrated his skills by weaving through multiple defenders in the box before finding DeAndre Yedlin, who equalized to make it 2-2. However, the tie was short-lived, as Tai Baribo restored Philadelphia’s lead just a minute later with his second goal of the match.

The Union sealed their victory in the 84th minute when substitute Quinn Sullivan’s shot was deflected by Celentano, only for Sullivan to pounce on the rebound and make it 4-2.

The 27-year-old defender played the full 90 minutes for Cincinnati, while his compatriot Obinna Nwobodo was substituted in the 85th minute, as the hosts searched for a way back into the game which unfortunately didn’t happen.

Up next for Cincinnati is the match against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, as they face off in the league on Sunday, August 25.