Lisandro Martinez’s Deflected Strike Seals United Win

Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike secured a narrow win for Manchester United in a lackluster clash at Fulham. The game remained uninspiring for over 75 minutes as both sides struggled to create clear opportunities. However, Martinez delivered the decisive goal with a late effort from the edge of the box. His strike deflected off Sasa Lukic and looped over Bernd Leno, marking the visitors’ first shot on target. Fulham dominated the first half but wasted their chances.

Raul Jimenez notably squandered a golden opportunity when his heavy first touch sent a shot over the bar after Antonee Robinson picked him out. Despite their early control, Fulham failed to capitalize and allowed United to punish them for their inefficiency. The game echoed the teams’ August meeting when United struck late to snatch victory. This time, Toby Collyer cleared Joachim Andersen’s header off the line in the dying moments to deny Fulham an equalizer.

Amad Diallo seemed to seal the win with a stoppage-time goal but VAR ruled it offside. United extended their recent strong form with this win, securing three victories in their last four games including a Europa League triumph over Rangers. However, their performance at Craven Cottage lacked conviction. United struggled to connect their defense, midfield and attack, barely troubling Bernd Leno until Lisandro Martinez’s goal.

Fulham, unbeaten at home since November saw their streak end as they failed to convert their early opportunities. Alex Iwobi and Jimenez created promising chances but could not finish, leaving the hosts vulnerable to United’s late surge. United climbed to 12th while Fulham remained in 10th, underscoring the tight margins of an even contest where fortune played a decisive role.