Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi played the full 90 minutes as Fulham FC progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup with a 2–1 win over Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium on Sunday. Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey, although part of the matchday squad, was an unused substitute as Fulham came from behind to secure victory in the fourth-round tie.
Stoke City took the lead in the 19th minute through Jun-Ho Bae’s strike, but Fulham responded after the break when Kevin Santos Lopes de Macedo levelled the score in the 55th minute. Captain Harrison Reed then struck late in the 84th minute to seal the win and take Fulham into the next round.
Iwobi’s appearance marked his 100th match for Fulham, underscoring his importance to the Premier League side, while Calvin Bassey watched from the bench as his club continue their FA Cup run.
Editorial
Alex Iwobi’s full-game performance in the FA Cup tie highlights his continued influence at Fulham, where he has become a dependable figure in midfield. Reaching a century of appearances for the Cottagers is a significant milestone for the Super Eagles star and reflects his consistency and adaptability since joining the club.
Despite not featuring on the pitch, Calvin Bassey’s presence on the bench shows the depth Fulham have in their defensive ranks. Managing squad rotation in cup competitions is vital for teams balancing league commitments and knockout ties, and Marco Silva’s decision to retain Bassey as an option paid off as Fulham saw out the result.
The late winner from Harrison Reed underlines Fulham’s resilience; coming from behind to secure progression in a historic English competition speaks to their fighting spirit. For Nigerian fans, the involvement of Iwobi and Bassey in this memorable cup moment will be a positive talking point amid their respective international duties.
Did You Know?
- Alex Iwobi completed his 100th appearance for Fulham in the FA Cup win against Stoke City.
- Fulham overturned a first-half deficit to win 2–1 in the FA Cup fourth round.
- Jun-Ho Bae gave Stoke City the lead in the 19th minute before Fulham fought back.
- Harrison Reed scored the winning goal in the 84th minute to send Fulham through to the fifth round.
- Calvin Bassey was named on the bench but did not feature in the match for Fulham.
