Nigeria and Fulham star Alex Iwobi. Photo by IMAGO
Fulham held Manchester United to a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage on Sunday, with Nigeria’s Alex Iwobi once again writing his name into Premier League history, Soccernet.ng reports.
Both Iwobi and compatriot Calvin Bassey, close friends off the pitch, played the full match for Marco Silva’s side, though their afternoons could not have been more contrasting.
Bassey, once again shifted to left-back from his usual central role, endured a nervy first half when he conceded a penalty.
VAR spotted the defender grappling Mason Mount during a corner in the 38th minute, leaving referee Anthony Taylor with little choice but to point to the spot.
United captain Bruno Fernandes, however, failed to punish the error, firing his effort high over the bar.
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United eventually broke the deadlock shortly after the interval, though in bizarre fashion. In the 58th minute, Leny Yoro headed wide from a corner, but the ball ricocheted off Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz and into his own net. While Yoro celebrated, the goal was officially recorded as a Muniz own goal.
Fulham refused to crumble and levelled matters in the 73rd minute, with Iwobi at the heart of the move.
Operating from a central midfield role rather than the wide position he often occupied last season, the Nigerian international delivered a pinpoint cross from the left.
Substitute Emile Smith Rowe met it with conviction, driving the ball past Unuyed goalkeeper to ensure the hosts claimed a share of the spoils.
For Iwobi, the assist was a milestone moment. It was his 40th in the Premier League, further extending his record as Nigeria’s most prolific provider in the competition.
The Super Eagles playmaker now sits clear of legendary compatriots Nwankwo Kanu (29 assists), Yakubu Aiyegbeni (26), Kelechi Iheanacho (25) and Shola Ameobi (20).
The result leaves Manchester United with just one point from their opening two fixtures, following defeat to Arsenal on the opening weekend. The Red Devils sit 16th in the table, already under pressure to respond.
Fulham, meanwhile, add another point to the draw they earned against Brighton in their first match and currently occupy 13th place.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.