Osaze Urhoghide: Ex-Celtic CB open to representing Nigeria scores first MLS Goal v Messi's Inter Miami

Former Celtic central defender, Osaze Urhoghide, netted his first MLS goal as FC Dallas triumphed 4-3 over Lionel Messi's Inter Miami on Sunday night.

Urhoghide, who had previously been trained with the Nigeria U23 team, played a pivotal role in his team's success, scoring the second goal of the game in the 64th minute.

The 24-year-old's goal came in a scrappy but determined fashion: after his initial header from a free kick was blocked by Miami's defense inside the penalty box, Urhoghide was quick to pounce on the rebound and fired it home.

The goal was Urhoghide's first in the MLS since his record-breaking move to the United States in February 2025.

The young defender was signed by FC Dallas for a significant transfer fee, making him the club's highest-ever paid defender.

He agreed to a four-year contract with an option for a one-year extension and occupies an international roster slot.

This goal will no doubt be a major confidence booster for Urhoghide as he continues to adjust to life in the MLS and aims to impress Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle.

With the Super Eagles' Unity Cup tournament in London coming up in June and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, Urhoghide will be hoping to earn a call-up to the national team.

With Urhoghide's heroics, the result was a bitter blow for Inter Miami, who were without their star player, Lionel Messi.

The former Barcelona legend was notably absent from the squad, and the Miami attack lacked its usual spark as a result.

The defeat leaves Miami in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, with 18 points from nine games.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: fcdallas.com

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