Crystal Palace secured a 1‑0 victory over Fulham in the Carabao Cup fourth round at Craven Cottage, with Eddie Nketiah’s first‑half goal sending the Eagles into the quarter‑finals and easing pressure on manager Pierre Sage. The match, played on Wednesday night, saw Fulham dominate the early stages but fail to convert a number of opportunities, while Palace’s counter‑attacks proved decisive.
From the opening whistle, Fulham controlled possession and created several chances, yet they struggled to find the back of the net. Their best opportunity came in the 16th minute when Tete’s header was misjudged, leaving the ball unmarked at the back post. A few minutes later, a corner produced a close‑range shot that Dean Henderson saved, keeping the score level. Despite these efforts, Palace’s defense held firm until the 37th minute, when the game’s only goal was scored.
The strike came from a clean cross by Oscar Mingueza down the right flank. Nketiah, who had only ten touches before the ball arrived, flicked the ball past the Fulham keeper with a deft touch, putting Palace ahead. The goal was Palace’s first attempt of the match, and it proved to be the match‑winner. Nketiah’s finish was a reminder of his clinical ability in front of goal, and it lifted the mood for the Palace squad and their supporters.
In the second half, Fulham increased the pressure, with Alex Iwobi coming close to level the score. He forced a point‑blank save from Henderson after a corner, and later in stoppage time, Gonzalo García’s header was again denied by the goalkeeper. Palace’s goalkeeper also made a crucial save when Kamada’s late effort was blocked. Despite these moments, Fulham could not find a way back into the game.
With the win, Crystal Palace will face the next round of the Carabao Cup, while Pierre Sage’s team can breathe a sigh of relief after a tense match. The result also keeps Palace’s hopes alive in the competition, as they look to build momentum for the upcoming fixtures. Fulham, meanwhile, will need to regroup and address their inability to convert chances as they prepare for their next league match.