Alex Iwobi became the Nigerian with the most Premier League appearances as Fulham suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, Afrosport reports.
The Super Eagles midfielder tied Shola Amoebi’s record of 298 games against Bournemouth earlier this month but became the outright leader after starting Saturday’s match at Craven Cottage.
However, Iwobi could not stop Fulham from losing their first home game of the season as a second-half goal from Leandro Trossard handed Arsenal a hard-fought victory.
Leandro Trossard wins it for @Arsenal, and the Gunners go back to the 🔝 of the table! pic.twitter.com/tf8zdSK1DO
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025
The hosts started on the front foot and created early chances. Raul Jimenez and Josh King were denied by David Raya, while Harry Wilson dragged his effort just wide.
Arsenal thought they had taken the lead earlier on, but Riccardo Calafiori’s effort after a well-worked move was ruled out for offside.
The Gunners improved in the second half, attacking with more intensity with Fulham forced to retreat into a low block.
Their momentum paid off in the 58th minute when Trossard bundled the ball home after Gabriel flicked on a Bukayo Saka corner. It was their seventh goal from a corner this season.
Following a lengthy VAR review, Arsenal were denied a penalty when referee Anthony Taylor overturned his initial call after Saka was brought down in the box by substitute Kevin.
Fulham boss Marco Silva threw bodies in as they searched for a late equaliser, but the Gunners held on to claim victory, moving three points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who defeated Everton 2-0 earlier in the day.
Mikel Arteta’s men now sit four points ahead of reigning champions Liverpool, with Arne Slot’s side set for a crunch clash with Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday.
Fulham, meanwhile, suffered a third straight Premier League defeat for the first time since 26 December 2023. The Cottagers, who have eight points after eight games, sit 14th in the table.
