Chukwueze Stars As Africa’s Top Performer

Published: 2023-04-13
Views: 359
Author: Editorial
Published in: Sports

Samuel Chukwueze had starred as Africa's top performer of the weekend, netting a double in a remarkable display as Villarreal defeated Real Madrid.

In the Premier League, Bertrand Traore and Jordan Ayew continued their revival for Aston Villa and Crystal Palace respectively, while Mohamed Salah went from zero to hero as Liverpool held Arsenal at Anfield.

ESPN Africa reports that Chukwueze drew criticism from Nigeria fans for his iffy performances for the Super Eagles against Guinea-Bissau during the recent international break, the winger's profligate showing prompting some supporters to question whether he's regressing.

He produced his latest star turn against Real Madrid, no less, with two goals -- including the breathtaking 80th-minute winner -- as the Yellow Submarine stunned Carlo Ancelotti's side 3-2 away.

It is rare indeed that a visiting player scores twice at the Santiago Bernabeu, let alone two goals in a display so overflowing with individual class and elegance, as well the decisiveness that was completely absent from his game during the international break.

Beyond his goals, he won 10 duels, having set the tone for a magnificent performance by stretching poor Nacho down the outside during the early stages.

Remarkably, he eclipsed Vinicius Junior and completed a game-high seven successful dribbles -- denied only once; in fact, he became the first visiting player to beat his man seven times at the Bernabeu since Lionel Messi in April 2017, when the then-Barcelona superstar also scored twice to inspire his side to a 3-2 victory.