Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi was named Man of the Match following his classy displays in Fulham’s 1-0 pre-season friendly win over Benfica at the Estadio Algarve on Friday night.
The 27-year-old, donning the number 17 jersey, scored the decisive goal in the 21st minute, slotting home from inside the box assisted by Antonee Robinson.
Benfica dominated the early stages, testing Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno with a series of attempts, but the Cottagers soaked up the pressure and grew into the game.
A 21st-minute failed Benfica attack led to a swift counter by Fulham, orchestrated by the tireless Adama Traore and calmly finished off by Iwobi.
Iwobi’s impressive performance lasted until the 79th minute, when he was substituted for Martial Godo.
His compatriot Calvin Bassey also put in a solid defensive display, playing the full 90 minutes for the Premier League side.
The London club will next face Sevilla at the same venue on Monday night, a game that will possibly feature four Nigerian players, Iwobi and Bassey for Fulham and Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho for the La Liga side.
Formerly of Arsenal and Everton, Iwobi’s standout performance and goal suggest he’s in good form ahead of the new season, which is cheering news to Fulham and Super Eagles fans.
