Super Eagles star, Alex Iwobi returned from an ankle injury to deliver a standout performance and win the Man of the Match award in Fulham’s Premier League victory over Brentford.
Mikkel Damsgaard gave Brentford an early lead in the 20th minute, but Alex Iwobi drew Fulham level in the 38th minute with a composed finish.
Just five minutes before half-time, Harry Wilson put Fulham ahead. The game was effectively sealed in the 50th minute when Ryan Sessegnon’s cross into the box deflected off Ethan Pinnock’s arm and ended up in the back of the net.
Iwobi was clearly the best player on the pitch. He scored once, provided an assist, completed 88% of his passes, created two chances, completed 98% of his dribbles, and delivered two accurate crosses.
The Nigerian international also played his part defensively, making five ball recoveries and winning two aerial duels.
Fulham’s head coach Marco Silva praised the way his side responded in the first half, especially after going a goal down.
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“We were the best team on the pitch,” said Silva. “Our first half was top level from the first minute. Front foot, very aggressive on and off the ball, building up our moments in the right way, causing them many problems with the positions of Alex Iwobi, Josh King and Saša Lukić.
“A good first 20 minutes but we conceded a goal that we didn’t deserve a mistake from ourselves in that moment. I loved the way the players reacted straight away and the support for Josh in that moment was lovely to see.
“What a reaction from us. We kept ourselves cool, but we showed character, we showed resilience and kept doing the good things we were doing before. We controlled all of the first half from the first whistle to the last, with some great moments of football too.”
He praised his side’s second-half display as well, dominating the game and not giving Brentford too many chances.
“Second half, we scored early and after that moment we didn’t give much to them. We were brave, organized and kept ourselves cool, controlling the second half. The only moments in our box came from long throws or corners.”
He also praised the players for showing great resilience and delivering the perfect three points.
“I’m proud of our players and the way they did it. A great night for our fans, they deserve it. Back-to-back wins in the Premier League are very important to achieve. Tonight, we won the game, we were the better team and we won the game our way.”
Fulham will now turn their attention to the EFL Cup where they will take on Cambridge in the 3rd round. A cup run will be on the card for Silva.
