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It was a night to remember for Noni Madueke as he led Chelsea to a resounding 6-2 victory over Wolves in their Premier League match at the Molineux, on Sunday.

The 22-year-old forward delivered a standout performance, securing his first senior hat-trick and maybe cementing his place as a key player in the team.

The match was a game of two contrasting halves. In the first half, both teams were evenly matched, entering the break tied at 2-2. 

However, Chelsea unleashed their full potential in the second half, overpowering Wolves with a relentless offensive surge.

The game began with Nicolas Jackson putting Chelsea ahead just two minutes in. Wolves quickly responded, with Matheus Cunha equalizing in the 27th minute.

Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s lead shortly before halftime, but Jorgen Larsen drew Wolves level again in first-half stoppage time.

Amid ongoing transfer rumours linking him to Newcastle United, Madueke delivered a performance showing his value to Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca.

His three goals were the crowning achievement of a stunning second half, with João Félix adding a sixth to cap off the victory.

Pre-Match Controversy

Madueke found himself in hot water before the match when he accidentally posted an Instagram story that mocked Wolverhampton City as “shit.” 

The 22-year-old deleted his publication as soon as he realized and admitted to posting on the wrong account.

After the match, Madueke issued a public apology, saying, “I want to apologize to anyone I may have offended. It was a genuine mistake, an accident. The post wasn’t intended to be shared publicly. I’m sure Wolverhampton is a wonderful place, and I’m sorry.”

 

 

Background and International Prospects

Noni Madueke was born in Barnet to an Igbo father, Ifeanyi Madueke and moved to the village of Wintelre with his mother when he signed for PSV.

Madueke has represented England at various youth levels, including scoring twice in a U-17 qualifier against Denmark and competing in the 2019 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. 

He received his first call-up to the England U21 squad for the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship and made his debut as a starter in the second group match.

He was also a key figure in the England squad that won the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, featuring in all six games and helping England secure the title without conceding a goal.

Though he has strong ties with England, Madueke is still eligible to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, although he seems more inclined to represent England.