Sports

Chukwueze sets new record at U-17 World Cup

Published

9 years ago

October 21, 2015

In from Nifemi Daniel . . .

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets star, Samuel Chukwueze, set a new goal scoring record during the team’s 5-1 defeat of hosts Chile on Wednesday.

It took Chukwueze no more than 25 seconds to write his name in the tournament record books scoring a quick-fire goal that put the Eaglets on the road to a 5-1 defeat of hosts Chile and into the last 16 of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2015.

The hard-running midfielder’s well-taken strike was the third-fastest goal in the history of the competition, exceeded in speed only by Brazilians Fabinho at Korea 2007 and Celso at Peru 2005, who took only nine and 14 seconds respectively to find the back of the net.

“Seriously?” asked the smiling and softly spoken Chukwueze when told by FIFA.com of his achievement. “I had no idea, but it’s an honour to know that my name is part of the history of a World Cup. I never imagined anything like this. It makes me feel proud.”

Speaking on his style of play, product of the Diamond Football Academy said, “I know I did well today, but I still have a lot of work to do to improve. I try to base my game on that of Arjen Robben, who can run with the ball at speed, score goals and set them up too. I want to be an all-round player like him.”

Ahead of Croatia match, Chukwueze said, “We showed against Chile that we have a strong mentality and nothing will make us lose it. It wasn’t the perfect game by any means. I think we can play better if we work on our concentration.”

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