LIEL ABADA’S hopes of a winning debut for Charlotte FC were scuppered when Cincinnati struck a stoppage-time equaliser last night.
The former Celtic winger moved in an £8million switch to the MLS club earlier this month and had be patient as he waited for his first appearance for his new team.
The 22-year-old Israeli international was given a fabulous ovation as he came on as a 61st-minute substitute with the hosts leading through a penalty-kick from Djibri Diani just moments earlier.
WELCOME TO AMERICA…Liel Abada is acknowledge by the Charlotte FC fans after his debut.
Abada, who agreed a four-year deal when he left Parkhead, was welcomed to the action by being sent sprawling only three minutes into his bow after being clattered by defender Ian Murphy who was immediately booked.
The former Hoops fans’ favourite showed flashes of his old form and came close to doubling Charlotte’s lead in the 78th minute with a drive that flew just over the bar.
It looked as though Abada and his new team-mates had done enough to get the game over the line, but their good work was undone two minutes into added-on time when Aaron Boupendza swooped to fire in the leveller from close range.
The little winger acknowledged the supporters at the end of the game and the club announced on X: “He’s one of us now. Thanks for showing Liel what the Queen City is all about, everyone.”
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report and best in action images from Livingston v Celtic this afternoon – only in your champion CQN.
