DIDIER DROGBA bagged on his debut for Phoenix Rising and dedicated the strike to his former Ivory Coast team-mate Cheick Tiote, who died on Monday.
The Chelsea legend scored the 40th-minute opener as the American club, who he captains and co-owns, beat Whitecaps FC II 2-1.
Former Newcastle star Tiote passed away earlier this week after collapsing in training for Beijing Enterprises.
Following his strike, 39-year-old Drogba said on Instagram: “I want to want dedicate this to Cheick Tiote who passed away doing what he loved.
“My thoughts and condolences go out to his family, the Ivory Coast and the whole of Africa, mourning the passing of one of their own.”
Known formerly known as Arizona United, Phoenix are hoping to become one of four planned expansion teams in the MLS within the next three years.
The club are now in their fourth season in the Western Conference of the United Soccer League, which includes a number of MLS reserve sides.
Drogba had not played since leaving MLS outfit Montreal Impact in November.
Not only did he get himself on the scoresheet, the Ivorian also set-up the winner for ex-England star Shaun Wright-Phillips.
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