Ryan Sessegnon scored the decisive goal as Fulham secured a narrow win over Aston Villa to strengthen their push for a European place.
The result lifted Fulham into the top half of the Premier League standings, moving them within two points of sixth-placed Brighton & Hove Albion.
Contributing to Fulham’s performance during the game were Nigeria’s Super Eagles duo – Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze, who were named in the team’s starting lineup.
Bassey locked down the defense, denying Villa any meaningful play from his wing, while Chukwueze supported the hosts attack.
Sessegnon delivers at key moment
The breakthrough came late in the first half at Craven Cottage when Sessegnon reacted quickest to convert from close range after Emiliano Martínez parried a header from Saša Lukić.
Fresh from signing a contract extension, the winger’s contribution proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter.
Fulham thought they had doubled their lead in the second half, but a header from Timothy Castagne was ruled out following a foul on Martínez.
Villa miss chances before European test
With Thomas Tuchel watching from the stands, Villa struggled to find rhythm despite creating opportunities. Ollie Watkins was unable to convert key chances, while the visitors lacked sharpness in attack.
Managed by Unai Emery, Villa now face increased pressure in their bid to secure UEFA Champions League qualification through league position.
The defeat comes at a critical stage of the campaign, with Villa preparing for a UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg against Nottingham Forest.
Fulham, meanwhile, remain firmly in contention for a European finish as the season approaches its final stretch.