In a thrilling clash at Craven Cottage, Fulham stunned Liverpool with a 3-2 victory, ending the Reds' impressive 26-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. This unexpected outcome not only boosted Fulham's European hopes but also left Liverpool needing just 11 points from their remaining seven games to secure the league title.
The match kicked off with high expectations for Liverpool, who, fresh off a win against Everton, aimed to extend their lead at the top of the table. However, it was Fulham who struck first, showcasing their attacking prowess. Just 14 minutes into the game, Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for Liverpool with a stunning long-range effort that found the bottom corner, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy.
But the lead was short-lived. Fulham responded emphatically, equalizing in the 23rd minute when Ryan Sessegnon capitalized on a defensive error from Curtis Jones. The makeshift right-back failed to control a loose ball, allowing Sessegnon to unleash a thunderous half-volley that left Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher with no chance.
Fulham's momentum continued to build as they scored two more goals in quick succession. In the 32nd minute, Alex Iwobi put the home side ahead, taking advantage of another defensive lapse. Iwobi's powerful shot from the edge of the area struck a defender before rebounding to him, allowing him to fire a second attempt that found the back of the net.
Rodrigo Muniz then extended Fulham's lead to 3-1 just before halftime, showcasing his skill and composure in front of goal. The Brazilian forward received a pass from Andreas Pereira, maneuvered past Virgil van Dijk, and slotted the ball low past Kelleher, sending the Craven Cottage crowd into raptures.
At halftime, Fulham looked comfortable with a commanding 3-1 lead. Liverpool, however, were determined to mount a comeback. They emerged from the break with renewed vigor, and in the 72nd minute, Luis Diaz narrowed the deficit to 3-2. After a swift counterattack, Diaz found himself in space and finished clinically, giving Liverpool a glimmer of hope.
As the match approached its final minutes, Liverpool ramped up the pressure, with several close attempts to equalize. Harvey Elliott came agonizingly close in the 79th minute, hitting the crossbar with a curling effort that had Fulham fans holding their breath. Liverpool's relentless attacking play continued, but Fulham's defense, led by goalkeeper Bernd Leno, held firm under pressure.
In the dying moments of the game, Liverpool threw everything forward, but Fulham managed to withstand the onslaught. Leno made crucial saves, denying attempts from Diogo Jota and Chiesa, as the home side held on for a memorable victory.
Post-match, Fulham manager Marco Silva expressed his delight at the performance, stating, "Great win for us. Our first half was very, very good, in all aspects of the game. A great goal from Mac Allister. We have to be stronger in that moment to start to be clever and make tactical fouls. But the reaction was great. All the energy I asked for before the match, it was high-energy, high-tempo and to be honest our pressure was very good. Their centre-backs were under pressure most of the time."
On the other hand, Liverpool's defeat raises questions about their title charge. Despite the loss, they remain comfortably atop the Premier League table, 11 points clear of Arsenal, who dropped points in a 1-1 draw against Everton the previous day. Liverpool now faces the challenge of regrouping as they look to secure the points necessary to clinch the title.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur also had a successful outing on the same day, defeating Southampton 3-1, which resulted in the Saints' relegation from the Premier League. Spurs took the lead with a goal from Brennan Johnson in the 43rd minute, and Mathys Tel added a late penalty to secure the victory.
Brentford and Chelsea played to a goalless draw, leaving both teams to reflect on missed opportunities as they look to improve their standings in the league. The draw means Brentford remains in the mid-table, while Chelsea continues to struggle for form.
The Premier League continues to deliver excitement as the season approaches its climax, with teams battling for European spots and others fighting to avoid relegation. Fulham's victory over Liverpool serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of football and the fierce competition that defines the league.
As the final whistle blew at Craven Cottage, Fulham celebrated a significant win that could have lasting implications in the race for European qualification. Liverpool, while still in a strong position for the title, will need to address their defensive frailties if they hope to achieve their goal of becoming champions once again.
