Super Eagles winger, Samuel Chukwueze delivered a game-changing performance off the bench, assisting Raúl Jiménez’s late winner as Fulham defeated Sunderland 1–0 in a rain-soaked Premier League encounter at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
The AC Milan loanee, who replaced an ineffective Kevin in the 64th minute, added instant intensity to Fulham’s attack with his direct dribbling and precise crossing, ultimately setting up the decisive goal.
Chukwueze Turns the Game Around
With Fulham dominating possession but failing to find a breakthrough, Chukwueze injected pace and creativity into Marco Silva’s side.
His big moment arrived in the 84th minute when he drove towards the box and whipped in a superb cross that Jiménez tucked in from close range.
The winner came from Fulham’s 18th shot of the match, finally converting the pressure they had mounted all afternoon.
Beyond the assist, Chukwueze delivered a near-faultless display:
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14 passes completed
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5 chances created
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100% successful dribbles
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Won all ground duels
His influential cameo earned him the Man of the Match award, offering a sharp contrast to Kevin, who squandered Fulham’s best first-half chance with a weak header at Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
Alex Iwobi Provides Stability in Midfield
Chukwueze’s compatriot, Alex Iwobi also impressed in midfield with a composed and industrious display.
Operating centrally, he provided structure and fluidity to Fulham’s play, recording:
Iwobi attempted an ambitious overhead kick earlier in the match and was later substituted in the 89th minute after contributing significantly to Fulham’s midfield balance.
Bassey Solid as a Rock in Defence
Defender Calvin Bassey delivered a great performance at the back, helping secure a clean sheet with:
His composure and distribution were crucial as Fulham maintained control amid Sunderland’s occasional threats, including Enzo Le Fée’s narrow miss early in the second half.
Fulham Climb to 14th; Sunderland Drop to Sixth
The win was only Fulham’s second in their last seven Premier League matches, lifting them to 14th place, three points above the relegation zone.
Sunderland, meanwhile, slipped two places to sixth, struggling to convert their rare opportunities on a challenging afternoon.
