Fulham edged out Burnley 3-2 in a pulsating Premier League clash at Craven Cottage, with Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey netting the decisive equalizer and starring in a dominant all-round display. The victory catapults Fulham to 13th in the table, just three points shy of the top half.
Bright Start and Quick Fireworks
Fulham burst out of the blocks, stunning Burnley in the 9th minute. Emile Smith Rowe soared highest to head home Harry Wilson’s pinpoint corner, giving the Cottagers a dream start.
Burnley hit back swiftly in the 21st minute through Lesley Ugochukwu’s equalizer, but Fulham refused to be rattled.
Bassey’s Moment of Magic
The hosts reclaimed the lead in the 31st minute, courtesy of Bassey’s thunderous header. Wilson’s exquisite cross found the Nigerian international, who rose like a colossus to power it past the keeper and silence the visitors.
Chukwueze Orchestrates Sealer
Fulham put the game to bed in the 58th minute. Samuel Chukwueze, another Nigerian standout, jinked into the box before squaring to Wilson, who slotted coolly into the bottom corner for 3-1.
Burnley mounted a late rally, with Oliver Sonne pulling one back, but Fulham’s defense held firm to secure all three points.
Nigerian Trio Dominate Stats
Fulham’s Nigerian contingent lit up the match:
- Calvin Bassey: A defensive rock with 50 passes (8 into the final third), 100% dribble and long-ball success, 5 tackles, 4 clearances, 1 block, 9 recoveries, and 14 duels won.
- Samuel Chukwueze: Attack sparkplug who created the winner, completed 30 passes, and chipped in defensively (3 clearances, 1 interception, 5 recoveries).
- Alex Iwobi: Versatile in midfield with 40 passes (7 final-third), 2 interceptions, and 6 recoveries.
This trio’s consistency keeps Fulham dreaming big.
