Alex Iwobi’s Fulham kick off their 2025 Premier League campaign with a clash against Sone Aluko’s Ipswich Town at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
While Marco Silva’s side remain in the hunt for European qualification, Ipswich are battling to escape the relegation zone in their return to the top flight.
Ipswich, guided by Kieran McKenna (assisted by Sone Aluko), head to London with confidence restored after a stunning 2-0 home victory over Chelsea. Goals from Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson secured a historic win—their first Premier League triumph at Portman Road in 22 years.
Correct score prediction: Fulham vs Ipswich Town
Kieran McKenna's side will face a stern test against a Fulham team that has proven difficult to break down in recent weeks.
The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a tightly contested 1-1 draw at Portman Road, and another close encounter is anticipated. That said, with Marco Silva’s men unbeaten in seven league games and aiming to keep pace in the European race, the home side are tipped to edge this one by the slimmest of margins.
Fulham 2-1 Ipswich Town
Fulham's form and Iwobi’s influence
Sitting eighth in the table and five points ahead of their tally from this stage last season, the Cottagers are on a seven-game unbeaten run. This streak, the club's best since 2008, includes a huge 2-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Alex Iwobi has been pivotal to Fulham’s attacking success. The Nigerian international has scored five goals and provided three assists in 19 league appearances, contributing directly to 29% of Fulham’s goals this season.
Dubbed the “king of pre-assists,” Iwobi’s ability to link play and create opportunities has been instrumental in Fulham’s push for a European spot.
The Super Eagles star’s versatility allows him to shine both in midfield and on the flanks, and his consistency has made him an ever-present figure in Silva’s lineup. His performances will again be critical as Fulham look to take advantage of Ipswich’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Aluko’s Ipswich seek back-to-back wins
Ipswich Town ended 2024 on a high, stunning Chelsea with a 2-0 victory to lcimb to 18th place, just one point from safety.
Despite their struggles, Ipswich have shown signs of resilience, winning two of their last four league matches, matching their total from the previous 28 games combined. However, their form away from home remains inconsistent, and they will need another inspired performance to secure points at Craven Cottage.
Former Super Eagles forward Sone Aluko, now a first-team coach at Ipswich, has been working closely with Kieran McKenna to inject confidence into the squad. Aluko’s experience will be invaluable as Ipswich navigate the challenges of a Premier League relegation battle.
Bassey’s role in Fulham’s defensive stability
While Fulham’s attack has been their strength, their defensive record has raised concerns. Silva’s switch to a three-man defence, with Calvin Bassey joining Issa Diop and Joachim Andersen at the back, has offered some stability.
The Nigerian defender, who returned from suspension against Southampton, has featured in 18 of Fulham’s 19 league games.
Bassey’s physicality and composure have been evident, but Fulham’s backline must remain alert against an Ipswich side buoyed by their recent success.
