When Ray Gaddis retired unexpectedly days before the Philadelphia Union’s 2021 Concacaf Champions League opener against Saprissa, Olivier Mbaizo was thrust into the monumental role of replacing the nine-year MLS veteran, club leader in games and minutes played, and leader of the defending Supporters’ Shield winners on the verge of its international debut.
Mbaizo put any concerns to rest in the opening half when he picked out Kacper Przybylko at the penalty spot for a massive away goal that gave the Union a 1-0 lead heading back to Chester.
In 2021, Olivier Mbaizo proved in many ways to be a more than suitable filler for his predecessor.