Fulham vs Brighton Preview
- Draw or Brighton win
- Both teams to score
Fulham and Brighton face off at Craven Cottage in a midweek Premier League clash, with both sides aiming to build on 1-1 draws in their previous outings.
While Fulham will be buoyed by their fighting performance against Tottenham, Brighton will look to capitalise on their strong away record to maintain their push for European football.
Fulham: Thriving Despite Challenges
Fulham’s 1-1 draw against Tottenham showcased their resilience, especially as they held on with ten men following Tom Cairney’s red card.
Although their captain’s absence might seem like a blow, Fulham’s unbeaten record in the three games he has missed this season (W2, D1) provides some reassurance.
The Cottagers have a strong recent record against Brighton, going unbeaten in the last eight H2Hs (W4, D4). They’ve also won the last two meetings at Craven Cottage, with late goals often proving decisive.
Fulham’s last two home games have seen four goals scored after the 85th minute, so fans could be in for more late drama.
Alex Iwobi has been a standout performer for Fulham this season, with six goal contributions (G3, A3). The Nigerian midfielder was instrumental against Spurs, providing the assist for the equaliser, and will likely be pivotal in this encounter.
Brighton: Aiming for Consistency
Brighton’s impressive start to the season has them sitting fourth in the table, with a club-record 23 points after 13 matches. However, their 1-1 draw with bottom-placed Southampton at the weekend will have been a frustrating result for Fabian Hürzeler’s men.
On the road, the Seagulls have been formidable, with three wins (D1, L2)—a record only bettered by Liverpool and Chelsea this season.
However, defensive frailties have been a concern, as Brighton have not kept a clean sheet since mid-October against Newcastle.
Kaoru Mitoma remains a key attacking outlet for Brighton. His header against Southampton marked his second goal in as many games, and he’ll aim to make it three in a row—a feat he’s yet to achieve in the Premier League.
Key Battles
Alex Iwobi vs Brighton’s Midfield
Iwobi’s creativity and ability to find key passes will test Brighton’s midfield and defensive lines. His connection with Fulham’s forward line will be critical in breaking down Brighton’s structure.
Kaoru Mitoma vs Fulham’s Defense
Mitoma’s pace and movement will challenge Fulham’s full-backs. If he finds space, his finishing ability could make a decisive impact, especially as Brighton often dominate wide areas.
Tactical Analysis
Fulham will likely adopt a disciplined defensive approach, relying on counterattacks and set pieces to create chances. With Iwobi pulling the strings in midfield and their recent history of late goals, Fulham could look to strike in the dying moments.
Brighton, meanwhile, will focus on controlling possession and exploiting Fulham’s defensive gaps through Mitoma and Solly March on the wings. Their high pressing could force errors, while their ability to start games defensively solid ensures they’re unlikely to concede early.
Prediction: Fulham 1-2 Brighton
Brighton’s attacking firepower and strong away form make them slight favorites in this clash. Fulham’s resilience and late-goal potential could keep the game close, but Brighton’s quality, particularly through Mitoma and March, should see them edge a narrow victory.
Expect Iwobi to make an impact for Fulham, while Mitoma’s fine form could prove the difference for Brighton as they continue their push for European qualification.
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