Fulham vs Ipswich Preview

• Draw or Fulham win
• Over 1.5 goals

Craven Cottage hosts a fascinating Premier League encounter as Fulham aim to strengthen their European ambitions against a resurgent Ipswich side fighting to escape the relegation zone.

Both teams have contrasting goals but share a common trait of resilience, making this clash a must-watch.

Fulham: Turning Draws into Wins

Fulham’s unbeaten streak of seven matches (W2, D5) highlights their ability to avoid defeat, but it also underlines a frustrating trend of failing to convert draws into victories.

Marco Silva’s side has lost just once in their last 11 Premier League outings (W4, D6), yet the high number of stalemates has stalled their push toward the top four.

December posed significant challenges for Fulham, as they faced four matches against traditional ‘big six’ opponents, emerging unbeaten (W1, D3).

However, a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth—where the Cottagers twice squandered the lead—highlighted their vulnerability in managing games against mid-table opposition.

Fulham’s immediate objective will be to extend their unbeaten home run to five matches, a feat they haven’t achieved in the Premier League since 2012.

The visit of Ipswich, a side they haven’t lost to in eight meetings (W6, D2), offers an excellent opportunity to achieve this milestone.

Antonee Robinson will be a key player, having registered 10 Premier League assists in 2024—the most by any defender—with one coming in the reverse fixture against Ipswich.

Ipswich: Building Momentum

Ipswich Town travel to London with renewed belief after their historic 2-0 win over Chelsea ended a 20-year wait for a Premier League home victory. Manager Kieran McKenna described the night as “special,” and the Tractor Boys will be eager to build on that result.

Their away form offers further cause for optimism, as Ipswich have earned more than half of their league points on the road this season (8/15).

Notable victories over Tottenham and other London-based sides underline their ability to rise to the occasion, even as they sit precariously close to the relegation zone.

However, their record against Fulham remains a concern. Ipswich have failed to win any of their last eight head-to-heads with the Cottagers (D2, L6), although the 1-1 draw in August’s reverse fixture ended a six-game losing streak in this matchup. Leif Davis, who created Ipswich’s goal that day, will look to rekindle his creative spark despite a recent dip in form.

Key Players to Watch

Antonee Robinson (Fulham)

Linked with top European clubs, Robinson’s creativity from left-back has been a standout feature. His 10 Premier League assists in 2024 set the benchmark for defenders, and his ability to deliver decisive moments could prove crucial against Ipswich.

Leif Davis (Ipswich)

Davis provided the assist in the reverse fixture but hasn’t added to his tally since October. With Ipswich relying on moments of inspiration to secure points, Davis’ overlapping runs and crossing ability could be vital in breaching Fulham’s defence.

Tactical Analysis and Key Battles

Fulham’s Wide Play vs Ipswich’s Defence

Fulham’s strength lies in their full-backs, particularly Robinson, who provides attacking width and dangerous deliveries. Ipswich’s defence must stay compact and vigilant to prevent Fulham from exploiting the flanks.

Ipswich’s Counter-Attack

Ipswich have shown a knack for upsetting stronger sides with their swift counter-attacking play. McKenna’s side will likely concede possession and look to exploit gaps in Fulham’s defensive line with quick transitions, particularly targeting the space left by Robinson when he advances forward.

Midfield Control

Fulham’s midfield, led by Lukic, will look to dominate possession and dictate the game’s tempo. Ipswich, on the other hand, will rely on their midfield’s work rate to disrupt Fulham’s rhythm and create chances through turnovers.

Predicted Outcome

Fulham’s form at home and superior head-to-head record make them favourites, but Ipswich’s ability to upset the odds, particularly against London clubs, cannot be ignored. A tightly contested match is expected, but Fulham’s attacking quality and experience should see them edge it.

Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Ipswich

Final Thoughts

This clash presents Fulham with a chance to solidify their European aspirations and Ipswich with an opportunity to inch closer to safety. With Antonee Robinson and Leif Davis likely to influence proceedings from full-back, fans can expect an engaging contest at Craven Cottage.

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Fulham v Ipswich, 2024/25 | Premier League