Alex Iwobi marked a historic milestone in Fulham’s clash against Newcastle United, becoming the first Nigerian player to reach 300 Premier League appearances.
While the personal achievement was monumental, the match ended in heartbreak as Bruno Guimarães struck a 90th-minute winner to seal a 2-1 victory for the hosts.
“It’s amazing,’ Iwobi said.
“It’s a big achievement to lead that, with the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle [Jay-Jay Okocha] that’s participated in the Premier League. It’s an honour, but I’m not done yet, I’m going to keep on going and hopefully keep the record going.”
The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for the Nigerian international, who praised Fulham’s second-half resurgence and lamented the missed opportunity to secure at least a point.
“We knew it was going to be a hard game and a tough place to come to,” he said.
“But if we don’t win then we shouldn’t lose, and maintain the draw. Unfortunately, a last-minute winner is a dagger in the heart.”
Iwobi highlighted the tactical adjustments that gave Fulham momentum after the break, particularly their aggressive play down the flanks.
“There was a lot more dynamism going on down the flanks, so we were able to hurt them and create a few chances,” he explained.
“But if we don’t take our chances, good teams like Newcastle can punish us.”
Despite the setback, Iwobi remains hopeful about Fulham’s trajectory:
“As long as we stay consistent, give 100 per cent and stay focused until 90-plus minutes, I’m sure we can get the results that we need.”
