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Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze delivered a masterclass performance as AC Milan thrashed Sassuolo 6-1 in the Coppa Italia Round of 16 at the San Siro on Tuesday.
The Nigerian winger found the back of the net twice, showcasing his quality in a dominant display.
Chukwueze opened the scoring in the 12th minute after a pinpoint long ball from Tijjani Reijnders set him free on goal.
His initial attempt beat Sassuolo’s goalkeeper Marco Sportiello but hit the woodwork. Reacting swiftly, Chukwueze pounced on the rebound to fire home and give Milan an early lead.
The 25-year-old’s second goal was just as impressive. In the 38th minute, Tammy Abraham provided a perfectly timed pass down the channel, allowing Chukwueze to slot the ball neatly into the bottom right corner, leaving no chance for Sportiello.
AC Milan’s attacking dominance didn’t stop there. Reijnders doubled the lead in the 17th minute, while Rafael Leão made it 3-0 by the 23rd minute.
The Rossoneri captain, Davide Calabria, added a fourth early in the second half with a thunderous strike in the 56th minute.
Tammy Abraham then got on the scoresheet himself, capping off the rout in the 61st minute.
Sassuolo managed a consolation goal in the 59th minute through Samuele Mulattieri, but it hardly dented Milan’s commanding display.
For Chukwueze, this performance marked a turning point in what has been a challenging start to the season.
Struggling for form early on, the former Villarreal star now appears to be regaining his rhythm, with three goals and one assist in 17 appearances across all competitions this season.
A commanding performance like this could be the spark Chukwueze needs to solidify his place in Stefano Pioli’s plans and contribute more decisively as Milan chase silverware.
