Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi was named Man of the Match for his standout performance in Fulham’s 1-0 pre-season friendly victory over Benfica at Estadio Algarve on Friday night.
The 27-year-old, wearing the number 17 jersey, scored the decisive goal in the 21st minute, finishing neatly from inside the box with an assist from Antonee Robinson.
Despite Benfica’s early dominance and a series of attempts that tested Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno, the Cottagers weathered the pressure and gradually took control of the match.
A failed Benfica attack in the 21st minute led to a quick counter by Fulham, orchestrated by the industrious Adama Traore and expertly finished by Iwobi.
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Iwobi’s impressive performance continued until the 79th minute, when he was substituted for Martial Godo.
Calvin Bassey, his fellow Nigerian, also contributed significantly with a solid defensive display, playing the full 90 minutes for Fulham.
Fulham’s next match will be against Sevilla at the same venue on Monday night, potentially featuring four Nigerian players: Iwobi and Bassey for Fulham, and Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho for Sevilla.
Iwobi, formerly of Arsenal and Everton, demonstrated strong form ahead of the new season, a promising sign for both Fulham and Super Eagles supporters.
