Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze was on the losing side as AC Milan suffered a 2-1 defeat to Napoli in a Serie A encounter at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday.
Chukwueze, who recently featured for Nigeria in their 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, was introduced in the 55th minute but was unable to inspire a comeback for Milan.
Milan, who sat ninth before the match, were aiming to secure vital points in their push for European qualification.
However, their hopes took an early hit when Matteo Politano fired Napoli ahead in the second minute.
Napoli doubled their advantage in the 19th minute through Romelu Lukaku, as the Belgian striker capitalized on Milan’s defensive struggles.
The visitors were handed a lifeline in the 69th minute when they won a penalty, but Santiago Giménez failed to convert.
Despite the setback, Milan pulled one back in the 84th minute through Luka Jović, setting up a tense finish.
However, Napoli held firm to secure all three points.
The defeat leaves Milan with an uphill battle in their quest for a European spot, while Napoli continue their push higher up the Serie A table.
Chukwueze vs. Napoli in numbers
Samuel Chukwueze came on as a 55th-minute substitute for João Félix, playing 38 minutes, but was unable to help AC Milan salvage a point.
The Nigerian winger did not register a shot on or off target, but was successful in all three dribbles he attempted.
He attempted one cross, which was unsuccessful, but managed to make one key pass. In terms of passing, Chukwueze completed 14 out of 17 passes, achieving an 82% accuracy rate.
Defensively, he impressed in duels, winning all four of his ground duels and also securing victory in his only aerial challenge.
While his dribbling and duel success stood out, his overall influence in the attacking third was limited as Milan fell to defeat.
