Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze delivered electrifying performances in Fulham’s dramatic 5–4 loss to Manchester City at Craven Cottage.
City arrived in west London in pursuit of another crucial step in their title charge and appeared on course for a routine victory after Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 17th minute. Tijjani Reijnders doubled the lead, while Phil Foden struck twice to put the visitors firmly in control. A Sander Berge own goal later made it 5–1, seemingly sealing the contest.
However, Fulham mounted a stunning late comeback inspired by their Nigerian duo. Emile Smith Rowe had earlier reduced the deficit just before halftime, but the second half belonged to Iwobi and Chukwueze.
Iwobi pulled one back in the 57th minute with a calm finish that reignited belief inside the stadium. Chukwueze, introduced after the break, then changed the game’s tempo entirely. He struck in the 72nd minute before adding a second six minutes later to make it 5–4 and send Craven Cottage into a frenzy.
With the gap down to a single goal, Fulham threw everything forward in search of a historic equaliser. City were forced to defend deep through eight minutes of added time, clearing danger under intense pressure. Amid the frantic closing moments, Ryan Cherki picked up the game’s first yellow card in the 94th minute.
Despite falling short, Iwobi and Chukwueze’s brilliance turned what looked like a rout into one of the most thrilling matches of the season.
