Fulham 1-3 Man City: Haaland Century, Smith Rowe Fightback

Manchester City Survive Fulham Fightback to Secure 3-1 Victory

Craven Cottage witnessed a dramatic Premier League clash on December 2, 2025, as Manchester City edged past Fulham 3-1 despite a spirited second-half fightback from the home side. Erling Haaland's historic 100th goal for the Citizens set the tone, but Fulham's Emile Smith Rowe ignited hopes of a comeback before Pep Guardiola's side held firm.

First Half: City Dominance Builds Unassailable Lead

Manchester City asserted control early with Erling Haaland opening the scoring in the 17th minute. The Norwegian striker finished clinically from close range, becoming the first player to reach 100 goals for City in just 135 appearances.

The visitors doubled their lead in the 37th minute through Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder capitalized on defensive uncertainty, lifting a sublime scoop shot over Bernd Leno after a clever through ball from Haaland. City's dominance culminated in first-half stoppage time when Phil Foden unleashed a stunning 25-yard volley into the top corner, leaving Leno rooted to the spot.

Second Half: Fulham's Fightback Falls Short

Marco Silva's introduction of Emile Smith Rowe at halftime sparked Fulham's revival. The former Arsenal midfielder pulled a goal back in the 47th minute, heading home from Wilson's cross to reignite Craven Cottage. The hosts pressed for an equalizer, creating chances through Jimenez and Iwobi, but City's defensive resilience, anchored by Manuel Akanji and Gvardiol, proved crucial.

Despite late pressure, Manchester City weathered the storm to secure three points that maintain their title challenge. Pep Guardiola's side showed composure under Fulham's late surge.

Analysis: City's Away Vulnerabilities Exposed

While victorious, City's performance highlighted ongoing away-form concerns. Statistics reveal they've averaged just 1.19 goals per away game this season—a significant drop from their dominant seasons. Betting expert Lewis Jones highlighted City's fragility: "The 4/6 for an away win looked very skinny given City's vulnerability on the road."

"Fulham draw no bet at 5/2 was a big price."
— Lewis Jones, Football Betting Expert

Conversely, Fulham's home credentials remain solid. Silva's side have conceded just three goals at Craven Cottage this season—the second-best defensive record in the league. Their second-half display showcased their potential to trouble top sides.

What's Next?

For Manchester City, this victory keeps them firmly in the title race but raises questions about away consistency. Fulham, despite defeat, can take heart from their resilience, with Smith Rowe's performance potentially boosting their European push.

The match underscored the Premier League's unpredictability—where even historically dominant sides face stern tests from well-organized opponents, especially at imposing venues like Craven Cottage.