Samuel Chukwueze responded to a difficult Africa Cup of Nations exit by playing a decisive role in Fulham’s Premier League comeback win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Craven Cottage on Saturday, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian international was on the scoresheet as the London side overturned a first half deficit to claim a 2-1 win, a result that extended Brighton’s long running wait for a league win at Fulham’s home ground in the Premier League era.
Brighton had taken the lead in west London through a well worked first half move finished by Yasin Ayari, with the visitors controlling long spells and testing Fulham’s back line. Marco Silva’s side struggled to create clear chances before the interval and went into the break trailing.
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Chukwueze, who had returned to club duty days earlier, was introduced as Fulham looked for greater penetration in the final third. In what became his fourth goal contribution in his last 6 Premier League appearances (3 goals, 1 assist), the Super Eagles winger made his impact count in the second half, timing his movement inside the box and applying a composed finish to bring the hosts level.
The goal marked a personal turning point for the 25-year-old, who had endured a painful moment with the Super Eagles earlier in the month. At the Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria were held to a goalless draw by host nation Morocco in the semi final before losing on penalties. Chukwueze, brought on late in extra time with spot kicks in mind, saw his effort saved as the Atlas Lions progressed to the final.
His equaliser in the domestic action lifted Fulham and changed the game, forcing Brighton to defend deeper as the home side pressed for a winner.
That moment came in stoppage time when Harry Wilson curled a free kick beyond the Brighton goalkeeper, sealing the points and sending Craven Cottage into celebration.
For Brighton, the defeat continued an unwanted record in west London. The south coast club have yet to record a Premier League victory at Fulham’s ground, a run that stretches back to their promotion to the top flight. Fabian Hurzeler’s team created chances but were unable to regain control after conceding the equaliser.
