Fulham will host Manchester City at Craven Cottage on Tuesday, with three Nigerian internationals expected to play key roles as Marco Silva’s side looks to build on their impressive weekend win over Tottenham.
Samuel Chukwueze is set to retain his place on the right flank following a standout, man-of-the-match performance in the 2–1 victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The winger, who assisted Fulham’s opening goal, was influential throughout the contest, driving attacks with sharp movement and precise passing. His form has steadily improved in recent weeks, with three assists already this season and rising confidence reflected in his creativity.
Alex Iwobi is also expected to start in midfield after a consistent run of form. The Super Eagles star has contributed two assists in the league and created 20 chances, completing over 400 passes at nearly 83 per cent accuracy. His ability to link play and support Fulham’s pressing structure has made him central to Silva’s tactical approach.
In defence, Calvin Bassey will continue his partnership with Joachim Andersen at centre-back. The Nigerian defender has won 51 duels, made 22 tackles and maintained an 88 per cent pass completion rate — numbers that highlight his growing stability. With Fulham conceding 17 league goals so far, Bassey’s reading of the game will be crucial against City’s dangerous attack.
Fulham sit 15th on the Premier League table with 17 points from 13 matches, though their home form has been encouraging, producing four wins and just one defeat. Saturday’s triumph over Spurs showcased an improved team structure, with Chukwueze, Iwobi and Bassey all contributing to a composed and organised display.
Manchester City arrive in west London second in the league with 25 points but have shown unusual inconsistency. Pep Guardiola remains without Mateo Kovacic, while Rodri is still regaining full fitness, deepening City’s midfield concerns. Their away form has also dipped, with only two wins in six league outings and a recent 2–1 defeat at Newcastle exposing vulnerabilities.
Fulham are expected to line up with Bernd Leno in goal, a back four of Kenny Tete, Andersen, Bassey and Ryan Sessegnon, with Iwobi partnering Sander Berge in midfield. Harry Wilson, Luke King and Chukwueze should operate behind striker Raul Jimenez.
Despite City winning their last five meetings with Fulham — including a 2–0 victory at Craven Cottage last season — the Cottagers will hope the momentum of their Nigerian trio can inspire an upset. Chukwueze’s resurgence, Iwobi’s control in midfield and Bassey’s defensive assurance give Fulham renewed confidence as they attempt to frustrate the title contenders on home soil.
