Calvin Bassey was restored to Fulham’s starting line-up, but the Super Eagles defender could not prevent a heavy defeat as Manchester City secured a commanding 3-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Bassey, who had been on the bench since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, replaced Josh Cuenca in the starting XI. However, City’s clinical first-half display left the visitors with little room to recover.
The hosts broke the deadlock in the 24th minute through Antoine Semenyo, who punished hesitation in the Fulham defence to finish confidently.
Bassey. Photo Credit: Imago
Six minutes later, City doubled their lead. Semenyo turned provider, releasing Nico O’Reilly into space, and the midfielder delicately lifted the ball over Bernd Leno to make it 2-0.
Erling Haaland added a third before the interval, finishing powerfully through Bassey’s legs after being teed up by Phil Foden.
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Bassey was joined in the Fulham starting side by fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze, but the London club struggled to impose themselves against a well-drilled City side.
Photo Credit: Imago
Although Pep Guardiola’s men were less incisive after the break, their defence marshalled by Marc Guehi ensured Fulham were restricted largely to efforts from distance.
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City’s first-half advantage ultimately proved decisive, as they maintained control to secure all three points.
