Former Super Eagles striker Efan Ekoku has weighed in on Christantus Uche’s late missed opportunity during Crystal Palace’s 2-1 win over Fulham on Sunday.

Uche, who joined Palace on loan from Getafe, came off the bench in the 66th minute, replacing Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Twenty minutes after his introduction, the Nigerian midfielder was presented with a chance to score his first Premier League goal for Palace in the 86th minute. 

Uche stretched to meet a precise cross from Tyrick Mitchell, but Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno reacted brilliantly to block the effort.

Sharing his thoughts on the chance, Ekoku said Uche’s movement showed good anticipation but the pace of the delivery made it difficult for him to adjust.

“Lovely ball, couldn't quite get to it, he is on a full stretch, isn't he, Uche? He couldn't move his feet quickly enough of the pace to really get there but it is a rare insightful chance,” Ekoku who was on commentary duty for the Premier League world feed said.

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning striker pointed out that, with a slight stroke of luck, the Nigerian international’s effort could have gone in.

“Promising touch and a coincidence in the end and then you get a bit of luck for it to ricochet back of the goal of you again and into the net,” he added. 

Uche will be frustrated by the missed opportunity, coming after a challenging start to the season.

The 22-year-old, who enjoyed a strong stint with Getafe during the 2024/2025 campaign, has yet to open his Premier League account in five appearances since his move on deadline day. 

Adeyemi Adewale