Ugochukwu Nets Stoppage-Time Equaliser in Draw Against West Ham

Lesley Ugochukwu scored a dramatic last-minute goal to salvage a point for Southampton in their 1–1 draw with West Ham United at the London Stadium on Saturday. The 21 year old midfielder, on loan from Chelsea, struck deep into stoppage time, securing his first-ever Premier League goal in what was his 34th top-flight appearance.

The home side took the lead just two minutes into the second half when Jarrod Bowen curled a left-footed effort beyond the Southampton keeper, raising hopes of ending their six-match winless run. However, West Ham retreated into a defensive shell as the game progressed, inviting pressure from the visitors.

In added time, a driving run from Kyle Walker-Peters resulted in a deflected cross that dropped kindly for Ugochukwu. He made no mistake, volleying the ball cleanly into the bottom corner to level the score.

The first half had been short on clear chances, though Kamaldeen Sulemana came closest for Southampton, rattling the crossbar with a fierce strike. Aside from the two goals, both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.

Born in France but eligible to represent Nigeria, Ugochukwu has featured at every youth level for France and won a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. He is also the nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Apam, and national team coach Eric Chelle is reportedly keen to persuade him to switch allegiance.

The result spares Southampton the embarrassment of breaking Derby County’s all-time lowest points tally of 11 in a Premier League season, which they now match. They next face Fulham, while West Ham continue to search for a win as they prepare to visit Brighton.

Editorial

Lesley Ugochukwu’s late equaliser wasn’t just a goal it was a statement. For a player with so much promise, and with two footballing nations eyeing his future, this strike may mark the beginning of a pivotal chapter in his career. In a game that lacked spark, he brought life when it mattered most.

Southampton’s season has been largely forgettable, but moments like this remind us that there’s still pride to be salvaged and players fighting for more than just results they’re battling for recognition and redemption. Ugochukwu’s strike didn’t just rescue a point, it showed a glimpse of a player who could become a central figure for club and country whichever one that ends up being.

Nigeria should take note. The Super Eagles have often struggled with midfield depth and dynamism, and Ugochukwu offers both. At 21, with a strong European pedigree and family ties to the Nigerian football legacy, he’s an ideal candidate to strengthen the core of the national team. France has yet to cap him at senior level. The door is open, but it won’t stay that way forever.

We believe it’s time for the Nigerian Football Federation to act boldly. Don’t wait for talent to walk away—embrace it early, invest in it, and show that playing for Nigeria is not just an honour, but a meaningful step forward. Ugochukwu could be a cornerstone of the national team’s future. The only question now is: who will convince him first?

Did You Know?

1. Lesley Ugochukwu is the cousin of former NBA player Serge Ibaka, who was born in the Republic of the Congo.
2. Onyekachi Apam, Ugochukwu’s uncle, earned 14 caps for Nigeria and played at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
3. Southampton’s 2007–08 season saw them finish with 76 points in the Championship, the second tier—this current season contrasts sharply.
4. Jarrod Bowen became the first West Ham player to score double-digit Premier League goals in three consecutive seasons since Paolo Di Canio.
5. Chelsea paid Rennes around £23 million to sign Ugochukwu in the summer of 2023.