How Chukwueze is making the most of limited game time for Nigeria at AFCON 2023

Samuel Chukwueze celebrating at the AFCON 2023. (Photo Credit: Making of Champions/X)

FOOTBALL How Chukwueze is making the most of limited game time for Nigeria at AFCON 2023

How Chukwueze is making the most of limited game time for Nigeria at AFCON 2023

Izuchukwu Akawor • 06:43 - 09.02.2024

Samuel Chukwueze is showing his creative side at the AFCON 2023, making the most of every minute he has played for the Nigeria Super Eagles so far.

Despite his restricted role off the bench, Samuel Chukwueze has found a way to make a significant impact for Nigeria at AFCON 2023.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the AC Milan winger has played an active role in Nigeria’s march to the final of the 34th AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

Chukwueze for Nigeria at AFCON

The 24-year-old has managed to leave an interesting, if not underrated, mark on Nigeria’s quest to do it again at the AFCON, with his performance statistics speaking volume.

A closer look at the numbers reveals a player who seems to have thrived under pressure and possesses the ability to be a key game-changer for Nigeria heading into the final against the host nation.

Samuel Chukwueze in action for Super Eagles at AFCON 2023 | Credit: X

The Villarreal winger has created more big chances (3) than any of his Super Eagles teammates, despite starting just two matches and sitting fourth for total chances created (6).

He is behind Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and fellow Serie A star and close friend, Victor Osimhen, on the chances created table per Opta.

Samuel Chukwueze in action for Super Eagles at AFCON 2023 | Credit: X

Chukwueze's ability to regularly craft high-quality goalscoring opportunities is evidenced by his 55.6% dribble success rate, completing five (5) take-ons so far.

In contrast, Lookman has carved out the most chances for Nigeria (13) but has registered just two big chances.

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Even with reduced game time, the Milan star has proven himself to be the Super Eagles' most efficient and effective attacker in terms of manufacturing clear-cut opportunities.

The productivity and influence of the former Villarreal dazzler, with limited minutes, underlines his game-changing threat whenever called upon by manager, Jose Peseiro.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated South Africa in the semi-final of AFCON 2023 || Imago

As Nigeria heads into the final against Cote d’Iviore’s reinvigorated and highly motivated Elephants, Super Eagles manager, Peseiro, and Nigerians know that Chukwueze is primed to make the most of any opportunity off the bench with his interesting end product in the final third.

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