Arsenal ended 2023 on a disappointing note, suffering a 2-1 defeat against Fulham at Craven Cottage in London on Sunday.
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring early in the fifth minute for Arsenal after Martinellu’s shot was saved by Fulham’s goalkeeper, Leno, and Saka capitalized on the rebound.
After conceding the goal, Fulham continued attacking in search of the equaliser. In the 14th minute, Jimenez’s attempt forced Arsenal’s keeper to make a sharp save following a low cross from Robinson.
However, Fulham quickly equalized, with Jimenez finding the net in the 29th minute with a low shot past Raya, marking his fourth goal of the season.
Just before halftime, Martinelli came close to giving Arsenal the lead. In the 42nd minute, a combination between Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard set up Martinelli, whose first-time finish narrowly missed the left post.
At halftime, the score remained tied at 1-1.
Fulham took the lead in the 59th minute from Bobby Reid’s finish following a corner delivered by Willian.
Despite both sides creating chances, the scoreline remained unchanged. Raya denied a strong strike from Fulham’s Cairney in the 71st minute, while Arsenal’s Trossard’s threatening cross in the 80th minute couldn’t find Gabriel’s touch to level the score.
Fulham continued pressing, with Andreas Pereira hitting the goalpost from a free kick in the 88th minute.
The final whistle confirmed Fulham’s 2-1 victory over Arsenal, securing a home win for Fulham on Sunday.
Inputs: ANI