Samuel Chukwueze’s latest Premier League performance has sparked mixed emotions among Nigerian fans, following his match-winning impact for Fulham at Craven Cottage.
The Super Eagles winger came off the bench in the 64th minute and immediately transformed the game, delivering a superb 84th-minute cross that Raul Jimenez headed home to seal a 1–0 win over Sunderland.
Chukwueze’s numbers in just 26 minutes were outstanding:
• 5 chances created
• 4 key passes
• Most dribbles completed in the match
• 2 big chances fashioned — including the decisive assist
But while Fulham supporters celebrated his brilliance, Nigerian fans were far less forgiving.
Many took to social media to question why the winger produces such electric performances for his club yet struggles to replicate the same form in Super Eagles colours. One fan wrote: “Change that jersey to a Super Eagles jersey and he starts playing like a fool.” Another added: “Where was this against Congo?” — referencing Nigeria’s painful World Cup qualifying defeat.
Others were more sympathetic, noting that structural and tactical issues in the national team often limit Chukwueze’s effectiveness. Still, most agreed that a player of his quality should show more consistency for Nigeria.
Fulham’s victory lifted them to 14th in the Premier League, with fellow Nigerians Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi also delivering solid performances. Marco Silva will no doubt be pleased with Chukwueze’s game-changing cameo, which injected the creativity and decisiveness Fulham needed.
Sunderland, meanwhile, were left frustrated after a disciplined performance that ultimately fell short despite the efforts of DR Congo midfielder Noah Sadiki.
As Nigeria look ahead to future international fixtures, fans will be watching closely to see whether Chukwueze can carry this renewed club form into the green and white jersey.
For now, his match-winning moment at Craven Cottage stands as another reminder of the winger’s undeniable talent — and the expectations that continue to follow him at home and abroad.
