Fulham managed to edge past Wycombe Wanderers in the Carabao Cup with a nervy penalty shootout win, after a 1-1 draw. The match, which saw the Premier League side struggle against lower-league opposition, was a tough encounter for Marco Silva’s team, whose confidence has taken a hit from four consecutive defeats in the Premier League.
The match got off to a rocky start for Fulham, as they conceded early to Wycombe’s Cauley Woodrow, who fired a powerful shot past Benjamin Lecomte just four minutes into the game. Despite having more possession and creating a handful of chances, Fulham’s lack of cutting edge in front of goal kept the scoreline in Wycombe’s favor.
The frustration in the Fulham ranks was evident as they struggled to break down a determined Wycombe defense. Adama Traoré and Tom Cairney came close with shots, but neither could find the back of the net. The away side’s first-half performance was lackluster, leaving the fans vocal in their dissatisfaction as the team went into the break.
Fulham came out stronger after halftime. Kevin, showing some spark on the left, won a corner that was expertly delivered to the near post by the Brazilian. 18-year-old Josh King, who had been a bright spot for Fulham in recent weeks, flicked the ball home with a backheel reminiscent of Gianfranco Zola’s iconic strike for Chelsea against Norwich in 2002, drawing Fulham level.
Despite efforts from King and Ryan Sessegnon, who had a positive impact after coming on at half-time, Fulham was unable to secure a second goal. With their main striker, Raul Jiménez, forced off with a muscle injury, Fulham’s lack of attacking depth was evident. King missed a couple of late chances, and after a tense 90 minutes, the game went to penalties.
Lecomte became the hero in the shootout, saving three of Wycombe’s penalties, including efforts from Ewan Henderson, Fred Onyedinma, and Donnell McNeilly. Issa Diop’s clinical strike in sudden death ensured Fulham progressed 5-4 on penalties, but the performance highlighted ongoing concerns for Silva as the team heads into a crucial Premier League clash against Wolves on Saturday.
