Four observations from Chukwueze's performance against Barcelona 

Super Eagles winger, Samuel Chukwueze came off the subs bench in place of injured Francis Coquelin in Villarreal's 1-0 home defeat at the Estadio de la Ceramica on Sunday night.

 

All Nigeria Soccer here presents the observations from the game which extends Barcelona's lead at the top of the table over Real Madrid.

 

1. Pressure on Barcelona Defence 

 

The Nigerian international immediately made an impact as he put the Barcelona defenders on the back foot. 

 

That created a goal-scoring opportunity for Villarreal when Ronald Araujo handled the ball around the edge of the 18-yard box and was shown the yellow card by the referee. 

 

By the way, Araujo will miss Barcelona's next game following the booking. 

 

2. Injury Scare For Chukwueze

 

Barely five minutes after coming on, Chukwueze was seen clutching his thighs which was not a pleasant sight for manager Quique Setién.

 

The Super Eagles star might have copped a minor issue albeit thankfully he was able to continue and was not subbed off. 

 

3. Chukwueze In Midfield

 

Chukwueze came into midfield a couple of times and created chances for his attacking teammates.

 

It was a bit surprising to see him as the last outfield player when Villarreal went for a corner - just on front of goalkeeper Pepe Reina.

 

4. Chukwueze operating at both sides of the wings

 

The Nigerian was seen at both flanks. He's primarily deployed on the right side of the attack and cuts infield with his dominant left foot.

 

However after Araujo picked up a yellow card, Chukwueze drifted to the opposite flank and that dynamism is a welcome development.

 

 

Izuchukwu Michael
 

 

 

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