The Secret Blueprint: How Eric Chelle's AFCON 2025 dream hinges on an interesting decision from Fulham's manager.
The Fulham boss has effectively shown Eric Chelle, Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 coach, how to unlock the full potential of Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze by switching him to the left wing.
This tactical tweak could provide the perfect blueprint to maximise Chukwueze’s speed, movement, and confidence at the tournament.
20:08 - 02.12.2025
‘Waste of time’ — Nigerians slam Eric Chelle for lengthy 54-man shortlist 19 days to AFCON 2025
Fans have questioned Eric Chelle's decision to shortlist 54 players for the Super Eagles 2025 AFCON squad with less than 3 weeks left to kick off
The Chukwueze Switch
Chukwueze, who typically features on the right wing for both club and country, has flourished playing on the left under Fulham manager Marco Silva.
In his last three matches, the 26-year-old has delivered eye-catching performances from the left flank, contributing four direct goal involvements, a brace and two assists, including a spectacular two-goal display against Manchester City in Fulham’s thrilling nine-goal game.
Beyond scoring, Chukwueze’s creativity thrives on the left. The transformation started against Sunderland when he stole the show coming off the bench.
In just 26 minutes on the left, he created five chances, the highest in the match, delivered four key passes, and completed the most dribbles against the stubborn Black Cats.
His form continued in a big derby win against London rivals Tottenham, where he also led in dribbles, created two chances, and picked up an assist.
In his latest impressive outing against City, coming off the bench, he created a chance and key pass, completed the most dribbles (two), and made a key pass, highlighting his influence in open play.
Switching the left-footed Chukwueze to the left wing allows him to cut inside onto his stronger foot for dangerous curled shots and precise passes, dramatically boosts his goal threat and creativity, and lets him take on defenders more naturally with explosive dribbling.
On the left, his stronger left foot is always in play; however, he attacks - outside, inside, or driving straight at goal - making him far less predictable and much harder to defend.
That’s why he’s suddenly looked “unplayable” there, as proven by his recent form at Fulham, where he delivered 2 goals and 2 assists, created the most chances and completed the most dribbles in each of his last three matches on that side.
His increased confidence in this role has seen him become more dynamic and unpredictable.
With AFCON 2025 just 18 days away, Fulham’s approach could provide Nigerian coach Chelle, who has released his provisional list, and the coaching staff with an invaluable tactical insight.
Incorporating Chukwueze on the left might just be the key to unlocking the winger’s best form and impact alongside teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey in the squad.
AFCON 2025