Fulham’s long-standing struggle against Arsenal continued as they fell 2-1 in their latest meeting, marking a third loss in four games. Despite a solid start to the match, Fulham’s inability to capitalize left them still sitting in 8th place in the Premier League, with eight games remaining. The game offered little momentum for a side hoping to challenge for a European spot, and the defeat was a tame return to league play following their FA Cup exit.
The Line-Ups
Arsenal: Raya, Timber (Trossard 77), Saliba, Gabriel (Kiwior 16), Lewis-Skelly, Odegaard, Partey, Rice, Nwaneri (Saka 66), Merino, Martinelli.
Fulham: Leno, Diop (Sessegnon 77), Andersen, Cuenca, Castagne, Lukic (Pereira 67), Berge, Robinson, Traore (Willian 67), Smith Rowe (Iwobi 67), Jimenez (Muniz 77).
Snapshot of the Game
Fulham started well defensively but struggled to make an impact offensively. A 37th-minute goal from Mikel Merino, following a deflection off Jorge Cuenca, put Arsenal ahead. Bukayo Saka, returning from injury, sealed the win with a close-range header in the 73rd minute. Fulham had a late consolation in the 94th minute when Muniz bundled in a deflected cross, but the result was never in doubt.
Tactical Approach
Marco Silva made several changes after Fulham’s FA Cup disappointment, bringing in Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez, among others. Defensively, Fulham was solid but lacked creativity going forward. Their xG for the first half was a mere 0.03. Although they showed signs of life in the second half, including a chance from Jimenez, the game was essentially decided when Saka scored. A missed opportunity from Muniz in the final minutes summed up Fulham’s poor finish to the game.
Star Man
Bernd Leno was the standout player for Fulham, making a number of good saves, including a stop from Ethan Nwaneri’s early volley. Despite the defeat, Leno could not be faulted for either of Arsenal’s goals.
Moan of the Match
Fulham’s cautious approach handed Arsenal control from the outset. Fans were left disappointed by their lack of attacking threat, and it felt like a missed opportunity, especially with Liverpool on the horizon.
Talking Point Down the Pub
Will Fulham ever win at Arsenal? Despite a close scoreline, the loss felt like another missed chance. With Liverpool up next, Fulham must quickly regain momentum to avoid squandering their progress this season.
What the Boss Had to Say
Marco Silva’s thoughts on the match will follow.
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