Iwobi shines as Fulham extend unbeaten streak to 9 matches, celebrates with Nigerian delicacy

• Nigerian international Alex Iwobi impressed with his creativity, contributing to Fulham’s attacking flow before being substituted in the 66th minute
• Joachim Andersen and Timothy Castagne scored late goals to seal a dominant Fulham victory
• Fulham’s coach lauded the team’s composure, highlighting their control and determination throughout the match

Premier League side Fulham delivered a resounding 4-1 victory over Watford at Craven Cottage on Wednesday night, January 9, to secure their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup. 

Nigerian international Alex Iwobi was at the heart of the action, as he displayed his creativity with several final third passes in midfield before being substituted in the 66th minute.

The game began with Fulham controlling the game early. Rodrigo Muniz broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, calmly placing the ball into the bottom-right corner after a through pass. Watford responded just seven minutes later with a moment of brilliance as Rocco Vata unleashed a stunning long-range effort to level the score at 1-1.

Iwobi played a pivotal role in Fulham’s attacking rhythm, creating chances and testing Watford’s defence. He delivered a dangerous cross in the 18th minute and forced a fine save from goalkeeper Jonathan Bond with a well-placed shot. Another highlight came in the 64th minute when Iwobi's delivery earned a crucial corner for Fulham.

Fulham reclaimed the lead shortly after halftime. Raul Jimenez confidently converted a penalty in the 49th minute following Antonio Tikvic’s foul in the box. Joachim Andersen then extended Fulham’s advantage in the 65th minute, capitalising on a loose ball to make it 3-1.

Iwobi was substituted shortly afterwards, with Martial Godo replacing him. Godo wasted no time making his presence felt, assisting Timothy Castagne’s close-range header in the 85th minute to seal the victory.

Post-match, Iwobi shared a glimpse of his celebratory mood by posting a video of himself preparing to enjoy fufu and egusi soup while singing a popular gospel song.

Fulham’s unbeaten streak now stretches to nine matches. They face West Ham next, led by new boss Graham Potter, as they aim to extend their run to ten games. Iwobi, who has already tallied five goals and three assists this season, will be eager to make his mark in the clash.

Speaking after the match, Fulham’s coach praised the team’s performance, 

“It’s a special competition, and every team dreams of shining in it. We controlled the game and scored three more goals after their equaliser. It’s a well-deserved win, and we’re excited for the next round.”

“Iwobi has nothing to prove,” Troost Ekong supports Fulham star despite criticism

Previously, TheRadar reported that Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has come to the defence of Alex Iwobi, lauding the Fulham midfielder’s commitment and professionalism amid constant criticism. 

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria's AFCON 2025 qualifier against Rwanda, Troost-Ekong reiterated Iwobi’s importance to the national team, predicting that he will eventually be celebrated as one of the country’s footballing greats.