Samuel Chukwueze made a strong return from international duty as he came off the bench to score in Fulham’s 2-1 comeback win over Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Super Eagles winger was introduced in the 59th minute with Fulham trailing and made an immediate impact. He found the net in the 72nd minute to bring the hosts level, shifting the momentum of the game at Craven Cottage.
The Nigeria international latched onto a perfectly weighted long pass from Danish centre-back Joachim Andersen before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Former Arsenal forward Paul Merson heaped praise on Chukwueze after the stunning goal, likening it to Thierry Henry’s trademark strikes.
“What a finish it is! Thierry Henry-style, but on his left-hand side,” Merson said on Sky Sports.
“It’s a great ball to him. Brilliant.”
Fulham completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Harry Wilson scored a long-range free kick for the winning goal to secure all three points for Marco Silva’s side.
Chukwueze’s goal marked his first appearance since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, where he represented Nigeria. The winger has now recorded three goals and four assists in 10 Premier League matches this season, underlining his importance to the Fulham attack.
Of the three Fulham players who featured for Nigeria at the recently concluded AFCON, two were involved in the match. Alex Iwobi played the full 90 minutes, while defender Calvin Bassey was an unused substitute.
Fulham manager Silva expressed his delight at the return of the Super Eagles stars following the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Nigeria internationals were part of the Super Eagles squad that finished third at the tournament, claiming the bronze medal after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Egypt, following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Speaking to FFCtv, Silva admitted the trio’s absence had been felt over the past few weeks, particularly in terms of competition, intensity and leadership within the squad.
“We were missing a competitive week. Believe me, in the past eight or nine weeks we have been missing this type of week that we had in preparation for Brighton,” Silva said.
“Senior players around, competitive, loud sessions, it is what we need for each player to reach the level to play in the way we want. It was a good week.”
The Portuguese tactician also highlighted the importance of the Nigerian trio beyond their on-field contributions, stressing their influence and presence within the dressing room.
“Three very good players, not just individual qualities. When they are around, off the pitch, you feel that they are around. Definitely, three big players for us,” he added.
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