Jiménez shines again to put Fulham in control
Raúl Jiménez continues to prove his worth for Fulham despite approaching 35 years old. The Mexican striker showed no signs of slowing down as he scored twice in the second half to put his side firmly ahead against Sunderland.
His first came from a well-directed header while the second arrived from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed a foul on Calvin Bassey. Jiménez calmly sent the keeper the wrong way for his 11th goal of the season. Marco Silva praised the forward’s contribution noting the club paid far less than reported for him in 2023 and he has delivered excellent value.
Sunderland struggled to find balance with an attacking lineup. Their wingers showed flashes of threat but also naivety. Jocelin’s Premier League debut ended early due to injury replaced by Romaine Mundle. Nordi Mukiele limped off with a calf issue allowing Lutsharel Geertruida to step in at right-back.
Defenders Dan Ballard and Trai Hume worked hard to contain Fulham though the visitors were not always urgent in attack. Mundle missed a clear chance curling wide after a fine pass from Geertruida.
Late drama as Iwobi wraps up the points
Sunderland briefly revived when Enzo Le Fée converted a penalty after Ryan Sessegnon fouled Ballard. Granit Xhaka returned from the bench to add experience but the home side could not build momentum.
Fulham responded quickly. Harry Wilson delivered a superb counter-attacking pass and Alex Iwobi produced a deft chip over the advancing goalkeeper to restore the two-goal cushion and seal the victory.
Marco Silva described it as a big important and well-deserved win highlighting his team’s quality maturity composure organisation and bravery in key moments. The result ended a run of three straight Premier League defeats for Fulham.
Régis Le Bris admitted it was a tough day for Sunderland. They failed to impose their ideas got sloppy and were not good enough. He stressed finding solutions over excuses and showing character moving forward.
Sunderland have won only two of their last 11 league games and continue to struggle for goals from open play. This defeat marks their first real wobble since promotion.
