Samuel Chukwueze earned high praise and a very good rating after inspiring Fulham’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in Saturday’s Premier League clash at Craven Cottage.
The Nigerian winger came on in the 77th minute and instantly injected pace and creativity into Fulham’s attack, nearly scoring moments later when his curling strike struck the post.
His dazzling cameo drew attention, with Sky Sports awarding Chukwueze a solid seven out of ten — a rating that reflected his growing influence in the English top flight.
In contrast, Chukwueze’s compatriots Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey received six each for steady performances, contributing to Fulham’s first league win in over a month. The Nigerian trio’s presence has become a major talking point among fans and pundits as Marco Silva’s side look to climb away from the relegation zone.
Chukwueze’s impact will also delight the Super Eagles coaching staff, as they prepare for this month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs. The former Villarreal forward has shown signs of rediscovering the form that once made him one of Africa’s most exciting wingers.
“He’s adapting fast to our system,” Fulham boss Marco Silva told reporters after the match. “Chukwueze brings energy, unpredictability, and a winning mentality. You can feel the fans lift whenever he touches the ball.”
Fulham’s early lead came after defensive chaos from Wolves, as Hugo Bueno and Emmanuel Agbadou failed to clear a through ball from Bassey, allowing Raul Jimenez to slip Ryan Sessegnon through on goal for a calm low finish past Sam Johnstone.
Wolves’ woes deepened when Agbadou was sent off in the 36th minute for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, bringing down Josh King on the break. Referee John Brooks showed a straight red, confirmed by VAR official Andy Madley, leaving Vitor Pereira’s men with a mountain to climb.
Despite making three substitutions at halftime, Wolves could not withstand Fulham’s second-half pressure. Harry Wilson struck a stunning effort from outside the box to make it 2-0, before Yerson Mosquera accidentally bundled the ball into his own net to seal the rout.
The result ended Fulham’s four-match losing streak and lifted them to 14th in the table. For Wolves, the defeat marked their 14th straight league game without victory — their longest winless run since 2012 — intensifying speculation about Pereira’s future.
“Right now, we are struggling mentally,” Pereira admitted. “The red card killed us. We must regroup quickly before the next fixture, but this result hurts deeply.”
Fulham’s fans were in jubilant mood at full-time, serenading their players as the floodlights glowed over Craven Cottage. The team’s energy and discipline stood out — and Chukwueze’s introduction was the spark that ignited the home side’s late surge.
The Nigerian winger’s growing chemistry with Iwobi and Bassey could become central to Fulham’s attacking resurgence this season. “We understand each other,” Iwobi said. “Having Samuel and Calvin on the same side gives us balance and confidence.”
For Chukwueze, who endured a slow start since joining Fulham, this performance may prove to be a turning point. The winger’s ability to beat defenders and create chances has long been his trademark, and his confidence appears to be returning.
His success in England is closely followed back home in Nigeria, where fans view his progress as vital to the Super Eagles’ hopes of securing a World Cup berth. “We’re watching his form closely,” said a source within the national team setup. “If he keeps this up, he’ll be a key figure in our playoff squad.”
Fulham’s victory also reflected a collective improvement. The midfield’s structure, led by Iwobi, allowed Wilson and Sessegnon to exploit the flanks, while Bassey provided defensive stability. The clean sheet further boosts morale ahead of upcoming fixtures against Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
As the final whistle blew, Chukwueze was seen embracing Silva, who applauded his winger’s contribution. The smile on the Nigerian’s face said it all — confidence restored, impact made, and recognition earned.
With his Fulham chapter beginning to take shape, Chukwueze’s next goal will be consistency — something his manager and country both desperately desire. His seven-out-of-ten rating may only be a number, but it symbolized a night when his talent once again illuminated the Premier League.
