Samuel Chukwueze delivered a decisive contribution off the bench as Fulham edged Sunderland 1-0 in their return to Premier League action at Craven Cottage.
Sunderland arrived in London buoyed by a four-match unbeaten run that included eye-catching results against Chelsea and Arsenal.
Fulham quickly seized control of the contest, with Alex Iwobi testing goalkeeper Robin Roefs in the opening minutes and further chances falling to Harry Wilson and Joshua King before half-time.
Despite the pressure, the hosts lacked a cutting edge in the final third until Marco Silva turned to Chukwueze shortly after the hour mark.
His introduction shifted the momentum. With 20 minutes left, the Nigerian winger linked up with Sander Berge on the left, wriggled away from two markers and whipped in a low cross that Raúl Jiménez tucked home from close range.
Samuel Chukwueze celebrating with his teammates. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Chukwueze almost repeated the trick in stoppage time when he released Emile Smith Rowe inside the box, only for the midfielder to miss the chance to seal the result.
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At the back, Calvin Bassey produced a composed display, completing five clearances and five recoveries while maintaining a 91% pass accuracy.
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Chukwueze signed on loan from AC Milan is yet to start a league game but now has two assists from five appearances.
