Fulham hold Manchester United to a 1–1 draw at Craven Cottage. Fernandes misses a penalty, Smith Rowe scores off the bench — Premier League pressured already. Full match recap, analysis, and where to watch.
Fulham vs Man United Background
Fresh from opening losses (Man United to Arsenal and Fulham a draw with Brighton), both teams faced mounting pressure at Craven Cottage. United’s away-to-Fulham record was impeccable — eight straight wins — so Ruben Amorim’s side were desperate to kick off the season with real points. For Marco Silva, hosting United offered a statement opportunity for Fulham to build home confidence and a positive start to the campaign.
Final Score & Telltale Moments
Fulham 1–1 Manchester United — United took the lead due to a deflected header from a Yoro corner, only for Emile Smith Rowe to equalize with his first touch shortly after coming on. Bruno Fernandes missed a key first-half penalty, keeping the Reds from securing victory.
Match Flow & Key Events
- First Half Drama: United earned a penalty after Calvin Bassey fouled Mason Mount, but Fernandes skyed it over the bar — a missed chance that would loom large.
- 58’ — United Lead: Leny Yoro headed in from a corner, but the goal was officially an own goal by Rodrigo Muniz after deflection.
- 73’ — Fulham Equalize: Emile Smith Rowe, subbed on seconds earlier, tapped in a cross from Alex Iwobi to level. Crowd erupted, and momentum swung.
- Late Drama: Fulham pressed for a winner with energy while United lacked clinical follow-through. The match ended 1–1.
Tactical Insights
- United’s Missed Opportunity
Spurning the penalty sowed seeds of doubt and left Fulham galvanized. If converted, the game dynamic would have shifted outright. - Fulham’s Tactical Bite
Silva’s subs were transformative. Smith Rowe’s finish exemplified Fulham’s attacking intent, while defensive organization nullified United’s usual threats. - United’s Instability
Despite possession, United lacked cutting-edge. Their recent result and early drawing form reflect lingering uncertainties under Amorim’s management.
Player Takeaways
| Team | Player & Performance |
|---|---|
| Fulham | Emile Smith Rowe — 9/10: Instant impact, equalizer. |
| Calvin Bassey — 7/10: Important defensive role, ambitious in attack. | |
| Man Utd | Bruno Fernandes — 5/10: Missed penalty felt costly. |
| Leny Yoro — 7/10: Influential in settling the defensive and set-piece game. |
Implications & Standings
- Standings Snapshot: Fulham now have two draws and sit around 13th; United have one point from two matches, seated deeper around 16th.
- What’s Next: Both must avoid a slow season start. United head to Burnley next while Fulham go to Briston City in the League Cup, then host Chelsea. Momentum—and fan patience—both hang in the balance.
How to Watch & Coverage Options
- U.S. Viewers: fuboTV, NBC Sports, USA Network, Telemundo.
- U.K. Broadcast: Sky Sports (Main Event & Premier League), NOW TV.
- India: JioHotstar, Star Sports.
- Live Text/Stats: Sky Sports live ticker, ESPN live commentary.