Arsenal Break Craven Cottage Curse With Narrow Win Over Fulham

Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Fulham on Saturday, ending their recent struggles at Craven Cottage and extending their winning streak to five matches across all competitions. Leandro Trossard’s 58th-minute finish proved decisive, giving the Premier League leaders a crucial three-point cushion at the top of the table over Manchester City, with Liverpool four points behind ahead of their clash with Manchester United.

The win was particularly significant for Arsenal, who had taken just one point in their last three away visits to Newcastle, Fulham, and West Ham last season. This term, however, the Gunners have already claimed maximum points in all three fixtures, signaling a marked improvement in their away form.

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Arteta Hails ‘Maturity and Mindset’

Manager Mikel Arteta described the victory as a key step in Arsenal’s push for a first league title since 2004. “The recent history at Craven Cottage wasn’t in our favour, and we wanted to change that,” Arteta said.

The Spaniard praised his team’s resilience, particularly in a match where Fulham offered stiff resistance. “When the score is 0-0 and time is running out, these games become very difficult. But we showed maturity, kept creating chances, and eventually capitalized from a set-piece. It was deserved.”

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VAR Controversy and Saka’s Near-Miss

The game’s only contentious moment came when Bukayo Saka appeared to be fouled in the box by Fulham substitute Kevin shortly after Trossard’s opener. Referee Anthony Taylor initially pointed to the penalty spot, but VAR overturned the decision, confirming that Kevin had touched the ball before contacting Saka.

Arteta, animated on the touchline during the lengthy VAR review, later clarified: “It wasn’t about the decision; the screen just wasn’t working. In the end, they made the right call.”

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Gyokeres’ Goal Drought Continues

Arsenal’s only minor concern came from Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish forward who has struggled to replicate his prolific form from Sporting Lisbon. Gyokeres went seven games without a goal, despite contributing significantly in build-up play.

“He was close again today,” Arteta said. “The work rate he puts in for the team is phenomenal. We support him fully; his breakthrough will come.”

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Looking Ahead

With this victory, Arsenal consolidates their position at the top of the table and sends a clear message to their title rivals. Arteta’s side now faces a challenging run of fixtures, but their improved away form and growing confidence could prove decisive in the Premier League title race.