Lesley Ugochukwu provided an assist as Southampton secured their first win in six matches, defeating Swansea 3-0 in an FA Cup third-round fixture at St. Mary's Stadium on Sunday.
Going into the game, the Saints had suffered three consecutive defeats and one draw in their last six matches, hoping to turn around their recent form and spark an upturn in the club's fortunes.
Ivan Juric's side took the lead in the 20th minute through Kamaldeen Sulemana, who was set up by Ugochukwu.
Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale's goal-kick was flicked on by Ugochukwu, leaving Swansea's keeper McLaughlin stranded in his attempt to intercept the loose ball. Sulemana seized the opportunity, calmly slotting the ball into the unguarded net from the edge of the penalty area.
Tyler Dibling extended the home side's lead in the 35th minute, before adding his second and Southampton's third in the 65th minute. His brace helped end an 11-match winless streak for the club, which had stretched back to November 2.
Ugochukwu shines in Southampton's FA Cup victory with impressive performance
Lesley Ugochukwu delivered a standout performance in Southampton’s 3-0 FA Cup win over Swansea, playing a pivotal role in the midfield.
With 41 touches during the match, Ugochukwu was highly effective, completing 32 out of 35 passes with an accuracy rate of 91%. His playmaking ability was evident, as he registered one key pass and created one big chance that led to a goal.
Dominating in both aerial and ground duels, Ugochukwu won three out of six ground duels and a perfect three out of three aerial duels. Additionally, his defensive contributions were crucial, as he made three successful tackles.
The 20-year-old was substituted in the 67th minute, with Will Smallbone taking his place, following an all-round influential display on the pitch.
Ugochukwu joined Southampton on loan from Chelsea at the start of the season. Since then, he has made 14 appearances for the club across all competitions, contributing one assist.
