Brace from the Nigerian hands the Impact three points
We didn’t know what to expect from Orji Okwonkwo, Wednesday night against Portland. The Nigerian midfielder hadn’t played since he was taken off against Los Angeles FC after suffering a leg injury, over a month ago.
But in the end, the timing ended up working in his favour. With the Impact taking advantage of a three-week break in the schedule, it allowed Orji Okwonkwo to put his head down and work hard on his recovery. With the help of the Impact’s medical staff, Okwonkwo was able to start last night against Portland, and boy did he make it count!
“He worked hard during the break and I knew he’d be ready today,” said Impact head coach Rémi Garde. “I had a long discussion with him, and he was in the right state of mind. He’s got talent and the power to hurt the opponent. The way he played was very interesting. It’s up to him to be aware of his qualities and what he can do to be effective.”
The signs pointing to it being his night were evident from the get-go. Taking advantage of a defensive error in Timbers territory, Okwonkwo made his way in on goal with full speed, only to see his shot hit the post and trickle out.
Minutes later, Okwonkwo was through again at full speed, this time finding the top corner to give his team the lead. After the visitors found an equalizer in the beginning of the second half, Orji answered again, and this time, rather spectacularly.
“When I spoke to the coaching staff before the game, they gave me a big role, which was to try and take advantage of their full-back,” said last night’s hero, Orji Okwonkwo. “It worked out for me and I did a good job on that end. Kudos to the fans for all the support we got.”
