Fulham Shocks Manchester United with Late Winner, Deals Blow to Top-Four Aspirations

Fulham handed Manchester United a major setback in their quest for a top-four finish with a dramatic 2-1 victory. The match, which seemed destined for a draw, witnessed a late twist as Alex Iwobi’s stoppage-time winner left United stunned and their top-four hopes hanging in the balance.

Despite Manchester United’s recent impressive form, remaining unbeaten and securing victory in their last five matches, Fulham emerged as the stronger side. Fulham’s Calvin Bassey broke the deadlock just before the hour mark, firing home a crucial goal. The Whites had multiple opportunities to extend their lead but were temporarily punished when Harry Maguire found the net in the 89th minute.

Just as it appeared that United might salvage a point, Alex Iwobi seized the moment and capitalized on a counter-attack in the seventh minute of added time. Iwobi’s historic goal made him the first Fulham player to score a winning goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford since October 2003.

The defeat dealt a significant blow to Manchester United’s ambitions of securing a place in next season’s Champions League. Manager Erik ten Hag’s side struggled throughout the first half, and the loss raises questions about the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.

Fulham manager Marco Silva expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating that they deserved all three points. The victory propelled Fulham into 12th place with 32 points, marking a crucial step towards climbing into the top half of the table.

For Manchester United, the defeat leaves them in sixth place, eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa. With their last hopes of a trophy hanging in the balance in the FA Cup and a crucial match against Manchester City on the horizon, the Red Devils face a challenging path to meet their lofty ambitions.