Samuel Chukwueze emerged as the decisive figure as Fulham came from behind to defeat Brighton at Craven Cottage, earning higher individual recognition from Sky Sports than several of the club’s established starters.
Fulham found themselves under pressure after Brighton took the lead through Yasin Ayari in the 28th minute, a goal that left the home side facing an uphill task in front of their supporters.
Marco Silva’s team struggled to break through until changes from the bench altered the momentum of the contest.
The turning point arrived in the 59th minute with the introduction of Chukwueze.
The Nigerian winger, who joined Fulham on loan, immediately injected pace and directness into the attack.
His influence was swift and decisive, as he levelled the score 13 minutes after coming on, restoring belief among the home players and supporters alike.
Fulham’s renewed pressure eventually paid off in stoppage time when Harry Wilson struck the winning goal, completing a dramatic 2-1 comeback and underlining the importance of the substitutes’ contribution.
Chukwueze’s display did not go unnoticed. In its post-match technical assessment, Sky Sports awarded him a rating of 7 out of 10, according to figures relayed by Complete Sports.
The score placed him above the team average and ahead of fellow Nigerian international Alex Iwobi, who started the match and was rated 6 out of 10. Defender Calvin Bassey remained an unused substitute.
The goal against Brighton further strengthened Chukwueze’s statistical return since his arrival in the Premier League.
In ten league appearances this season, the forward has now registered three goals and four assists, figures that highlight his growing influence and adaptation to English football following his move from AC Milan.
At club level, the performance marked a positive contrast with his recent international experience.
Nigeria finished third at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, but the tournament brought mixed emotions for Chukwueze.
In the semi-final defeat to the host nation, he saw a penalty saved by Yassine Bounou at a crucial moment when Nigeria could have taken the lead.
His continental campaign was not without highlights, however.
During the group stage, Chukwueze played a key role in Nigeria’s final Group C match against Uganda in Fez, providing two assists in a 3-1 victory, both converted by Raphael Onyedika.
Back in England, his impact against Brighton offered a timely reminder of his quality, with both his performance and the statistical recognition reinforcing his value to Fulham’s season.
