Fulham vs West Ham

Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 2:00 PM UTC

Match Analysis

Fulham 1-1 West Ham: Detailed Analysis

Match Overview

The Premier League clash between Fulham and West Ham United on September 14, 2024, ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage. Raul Jimenez opened the scoring for Fulham in the 24th minute, but Danny Ings salvaged a point for West Ham with a last-gasp equalizer in the 95th minute. This analysis delves into the key moments, tactical setups, and individual performances that shaped the outcome of the match.

Key Moments

First Half

  • 24th Minute: Raul Jimenez's Goal

    • Emile Smith Rowe, who was influential throughout the match, made a perfectly timed run to keep the ball in play near the byline. He then delivered a precise cutback to Raul Jimenez, who slotted the ball past Alphonse Areola to give Fulham a deserved lead.
    • This goal was a result of Fulham's high pressing and quick transitions, which kept West Ham on the back foot for most of the first half.

  • 16th Minute: Controversial Penalty Decision

    • Adama Traore was brought down in the box by Max Kilman, but referee Tim Robinson and VAR deemed the contact minimal, much to the dismay of Fulham's players and fans. Marco Silva, Fulham's manager, was particularly vocal about this decision, believing it had a significant impact on the game.

Second Half

  • 60th Minute: West Ham's First Real Threat

    • Jarrod Bowen forced a fine save from Bernd Leno after connecting with a cross from Mohammed Kudus. This marked the beginning of West Ham's improved performance in the second half, largely influenced by tactical changes and substitutions.

  • 95th Minute: Danny Ings' Equalizer

    • In the dying moments of the game, Vladimir Coufal's quick throw-in found Bowen, who managed to keep the ball in play and deliver a cross to Danny Ings. Ings took one touch to set himself before firing a low shot past Leno, securing a point for West Ham.

Tactical Analysis

Fulham

  • Formation: 4-2-3-1

    • Marco Silva set up his team in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on maintaining possession and quick transitions. The midfield trio of Andreas Pereira, Sasa Lukic, and Emile Smith Rowe provided creativity and control, while Adama Traore and Alex Iwobi offered width and pace on the flanks.
    • Fulham's high pressing and quick passing sequences were effective in the first half, but they failed to capitalize on their dominance, missing several key chances to extend their lead.

  • Key Players

    • Emile Smith Rowe: His intelligence and timing were crucial for Fulham's attacking play. He provided the assist for Jimenez's goal and was a constant threat with his runs and passing.
    • Adama Traore: Despite missing a few chances, Traore's pace and physicality caused problems for West Ham's defense. His ability to stretch the play and create space was vital for Fulham's attacking strategy.

West Ham

  • Formation: 4-3-3

    • Julen Lopetegui opted for a 4-3-3 formation, but his team struggled to implement his ideas in the first half. The midfield trio of Edson Alvarez, Guido Rodriguez, and Tomas Soucek lacked creativity and control, leading to a disjointed performance.
    • The introduction of Lucas Paqueta and Crysencio Summerville at halftime added much-needed dynamism and creativity. Paqueta's ability to dictate play and Summerville's direct running helped West Ham gain a foothold in the game.

  • Key Players

    • Jarrod Bowen: Moved to a central role in the second half, Bowen's work rate and ability to find space were crucial. He provided the assist for Ings' equalizer and was involved in most of West Ham's attacking moves.
    • Danny Ings: Despite being out of favor and almost leaving the club in the summer, Ings proved his worth with a clinical finish in the final moments of the game. His experience and composure were vital for West Ham's late resurgence.

Individual Performances

Fulham

  • Raul Jimenez: Scored the opening goal and was a constant threat in the box. His movement and finishing were top-notch, but he lacked support in the second half.
  • Bernd Leno: Made several crucial saves to keep Fulham in the game, particularly in the second half when West Ham increased their attacking intensity.

West Ham

  • Lucas Paqueta: His introduction changed the dynamics of the game. Paqueta's vision and passing range helped West Ham control the midfield and create more chances.
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