Fulham's 4-2 Win Against Al-Ittihad Marks Key Step In Premier League Preparations

Add as a preferred source on Google

Fulham's manager, Marco Silva, emphasised that their 4-2 win over Al-Ittihad was merely a part of their preparation for the upcoming Premier League season. Fulham's dominant first-half performance saw them take a strong lead with goals from Harry Wilson, Emile Smith Rowe, Josh King, and Jorge Cuenca. Despite Karim Benzema scoring twice in the second half, Fulham maintained control and had several chances to extend their lead.

In their second pre-season match in Portugal, Wilson's stunning goal in the seventh minute gave Fulham an early advantage. Smith Rowe doubled the lead with a skilful chip over Hamed Al Shanqiti. Quick goals from King and Cuenca completed a commanding first half for Fulham. Although Benzema's two goals in six minutes after halftime threatened to unsettle them, Fulham held firm to continue their promising pre-season form.

Fulham have now scored seven goals across their last two pre-season games. They previously defeated Nottingham Forest 3-1. Their next challenge is against Eintracht Frankfurt at Craven Cottage on August 9. The Premier League campaign kicks off with an away match against Brighton a week later.

Silva expressed satisfaction with his team's first-half performance but noted that their attacking prowess in the initial 45 minutes affected their play after halftime. "It is another step in our preparation. That is the main thing," Silva stated on Fulham's official website.

Silva acknowledged the challenging weather conditions during the match but stressed the importance of training under such circumstances to prepare for the Premier League opener. He remarked on the team's excellent control and goal-scoring ability in the first half but admitted that they did not maintain the same level after halftime.

"It was a very good first half with the way we controlled it with some very good goals," Silva commented. However, he noted that being 4-0 up at halftime might have led to complacency, affecting their second-half performance despite maintaining commitment and attitude throughout.