In dramatic fashion, Manchester City survive Fulham's onslaught in a 9-goal thriller at Craven Cottage.

A match full of chaos and drama unfolded in week 14 of the 2025/2026 English League as Manchester City defeated Fulham 5-4 at Craven Cottage, early Wednesday morning WIB, December 3rd, 2025. In that fierce contest, Pep Guardiola's squad nearly let a comfortable win turn into a nightmare.

City dominated from the opening minutes. They led 3-1 in the first half through goals from Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, and Phil Foden. Meanwhile, Fulham could only reply via Emile Smith Rowe. With the flow of the game like that, many thought The Citizens would win big.

In the second half, City's dominance initially seemed even more complete. Phil Foden scored his second goal in the 48th minute, capitalizing on a Haaland assist, before a Sander Berge own goal stretched the score to 5-1. City appeared unbeatable.

However, Fulham refused to surrender. Under Marco Silva's command, the hosts found an explosive momentum that brought Craven Cottage back to life. 

Alex Iwobi scored in the 56th minute, opening the path to a comeback. Samuel Chukwueza then added two goals, ushering in a new period full of tension.

Within a span of 22 minutes, the score changed to 4-5. City, who were previously on top, suddenly found themselves in panic. 

Fulham besieged Donnarumma's defense, creating several dangerous chances during injury time that made City supporters hold their breath.

Guardiola could only pace anxiously on the sidelines while City tried to maintain control. In the end, there were no additional goals. 

The 5-4 scoreline held, ensuring The Citizens returned home with three hard-earned points.

This win keeps Manchester City in second place in the standings with 28 points, maintaining pressure on leaders Arsenal. Fulham, despite a heroic display, remain stuck in 15th place with 17 points from 14 matches.

Line-ups

Fulham: Bernd Leno, Calvin Bassey, Joachim Andersen, Ryan Sessegnon, Kenny Tete (Timothy Castagne 46'), Emile Smith-Rowe, Sander Berge, Sasa Lukic (Samuel Chukwueze 46'), Raul Jimenez (Jonah Kusi Asare 77'), Alex Iwobi, Harry Wilson (Kevin 82')

Manchester City: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, Nico O'Reilly, Matheus Nunes, Nico Gonzalez (John Stones 64'), Tijjani Reijnders (Rayan Cherki 82'), Bernardo Silva, Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku (Savinho 64'), Phil Foden (Nathan Ake 90+9)