Manchester City survived a dramatic scare at Craven Cottage, edging Fulham 5-4 in a match that showcased their devastating attack but exposed continuing defensive frailties. Erling Haaland reached a landmark 100 Premier League goals — the fastest ever, in 111 appearances — and also supplied two assists as City raced into a 5-1 lead early in the second half.
City’s first-half onslaught produced goals from Haaland, a Phil Foden double, a strike from Tijjani Reijnders and a Sander Berge own goal, with their first four shots on target all finding the net. The performance looked like the kind that would intimidate title rivals, but Fulham, galvanised by substitute Samuel Chukwueze, launched a stirring response. They scored three unanswered goals and forced a stoppage-time clearance off the line, leaving City clinging on as pressure mounted in the closing minutes.
Haaland reflected on the rollercoaster: “I was close to scoring and then they went and made it 5-3, so that's football, that's the beauty of football. That's why we love the game.”
While City’s firepower remains undeniable — Haaland and Foden are in electric form — their defence is an increasing concern. After 14 Premier Lea
