“He’s been great in the Premier League” – Nigeria star praises Fulham’s Chukwueze after AFCON opener

Before AFCON 2025, Samuel Chukwueze recorded four assists and scored two goals — form he has continued to show with the Super Eagles at the tournament…

Birmingham City defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has singled out Fulham’s Samuel Chukwueze for praise following his impressive performance in the Super Eagles' AFCON 2025 opener, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The AC Milan-owned forward did not score or provide any assists for the 2013 AFCON champions, but his impact was felt during the game.

After Nigeria's 2-1 victory against Tanzania, Osayi-Samuel praised his teammates' influence on the pitch, which was key in the Super Eagles' attack.

Osayi-Samuel on Chukwueze and teamwork

Speaking exclusively to Soccernet.ng, Osayi-Samuel touched on the Winger's English Premier League form and the importance of their partnership for the Super Eagles.

“Yeah, I mean, I love playing with him [Samuel Chukwueze], we play on the same side. What I need to do is just give him the ball and run in space, you know, he's been great in the Premier League, and you can see those flashes of quality today,” he said to Soccernet.ng. “I think the more we gel together, the more we play together, then we will see more of him.”

He also emphasised that creating space and delivering the ball to the squad’s key attackers is central to Nigeria’s goal-scoring strategy for the tournament.

“I think taking our chances, we had quite a few today, but we didn't take them. Overall, the more we play together, know our strengths, and try to give service to our number 9, then yeah, all the best.”

Watch what Bright Osayi-Samuel said about Chukwueze here:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ayomide Oguntimehin (@ayo_oguntimehin)

Chukwueze’s impact against Tanzania

On loan at Fulham from AC Milan, the Nigerian forward entered AFCON 2025 in top form. Before the tournament, he recorded six goal involvements in the Premier League—four assists and two goals.

Against Tanzania, he impressed in his 59-minute display with six successful dribbles (60%), 13 duels, and four touches inside the opposition’s box, constantly testing the Tanzanian defence.

Chukwueze’s performance showed fans why the Super Eagles are confident in their attacking options as they now prepare for their next clash against Tunisia on December 27.