The invaluable contribution and outstanding performance of FC Dallas Defence Strongman, Osaze Urhoghide, since arriving at the US Major League Soccer (MLS) has been rewarded as he has been honoured with MLS Defender of the Season award.
With the award, the 6’4” tall Dutch-born Nigerian, is capping off a campaign that has endeared him to fans both in the United States and back home in Nigeria.
Osaze has been impressive since joining FC Dallas and the club has found him to be their rock this season, with two important goals to his credit, an amazing feat that has amplified the Edo born defender’s loud knocks on the Super Eagles door.
This year, Urhoghide didn’t just defend, he dominated. Week after week, the Edo-rooted horse power stood tall for Dallas, marshaling the back line with authority and confidence with scoring instinct.
His season-defining moment came on the final day, with a thunderous, decisive goal, his second of the year, that sealed Dallas’ playoff berth and earned him MLS Player of the Week, sharing the spotlight with none other than Lionel Messi.
His rise has been steady and progressive in Texas after bouncing through Europe with stops at Celtic, Ostende and Amiens.
He featured in 31 matches, scored 2 goals with countless saves that earned him the full respect of the league to walk away with both Player of the Year and Defender of the Season, a rare double that speaks volumes.
Speaking, Osaze said it has been an amazing season for him in the US and he is so excited to be honoured by the league body.
“Winning the Defender of the Season award is a great honour, but it is not just about me,” he said. “It’s about the team. I’m proud of what we built this season. Next year, I want even more, maybe at the international level if I’m invited.
“I want to give back. I want to inspire Nigerian kids to chase their dreams,” he said. “Football can change lives, and I want to be part of that,” he emphasized.
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