Fulham vs Arsenal Trossard Strike Sends Gunners Three Points

Published: 19 October 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Arsenal strengthened their position at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage, courtesy of Leandro Trossard’s decisive strike from a second-half corner. The narrow win pushed the Gunners three points clear and once again highlighted their reputation as masters of set-pieces, a defining feature of Mikel Arteta’s side over recent seasons.

The match began at a measured pace, with Fulham demonstrating the kind of resilience that has made Craven Cottage a notoriously difficult venue for visiting teams. Arsenal, aware of their opponents’ capacity to frustrate, patiently built their attacks, probing for openings while carefully managing possession. Despite the visitors’ early dominance in the midfield, Fulham’s defensive organisation meant clear-cut chances were limited. Harry Wilson tested Arsenal’s defence on several occasions, but his finishing lacked precision, keeping the scores level in the opening exchanges.

Arsenal’s breakthrough came midway through the second half and was emblematic of their set-piece proficiency. Bukayo Saka delivered an in-swinging corner that Gabriel flicked on with perfect timing, allowing Trossard to bundle the ball over the line from close range at the back post. The goal was Arsenal’s 50th from a corner since the start of the 2022/23 season, a figure unmatched by any other Premier League side, whose next-best tally sits at just 34. This statistic underlines the meticulous planning and practice behind the Gunners’ dead-ball routines and the threat they pose in tight contests.

Fulham, who have caused Arsenal problems in recent seasons, including taking four points from the last two meetings at Craven Cottage, were determined to respond. Marco Silva’s side pressed intelligently but struggled to convert possession into genuine goal-scoring opportunities. Their main chances fell to Wilson, who spurned Fulham’s clearest moments of the match. The home side ultimately finished the game without a single shot on target, a reflection of both Arsenal’s defensive solidity and Fulham’s inability to turn pressure into precision.

Arsenal, meanwhile, had opportunities to double their lead but were thwarted by both misfiring finishing and excellent goalkeeping. Viktor Gyökeres, whose pace and positioning had looked promising, was twice denied by former Gunners keeper Bernd Leno before blasting a half-chance over the bar. A potential penalty for Arsenal was also overturned following a VAR review after Kevin’s challenge on Saka was initially deemed a foul, leaving the visitors to rely on Trossard’s solitary goal. Despite these near-misses, Arsenal’s composure and tactical discipline ensured the slim advantage remained intact.

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba was crucial in maintaining Arsenal’s clean sheet. The pair dealt with Fulham’s limited threats efficiently, cutting out crosses and making crucial interceptions. Saka, at the opposite end of the pitch, led Arsenal’s attacking charge, his dynamic wing play creating uncertainty in Fulham’s ranks and continually offering the visitors a potential outlet on the break. The balance between defensive diligence and attacking ingenuity has been a hallmark of Arteta’s side this season, and it was evident once more against a resolute Fulham team.

Mikel Arteta praised his players after the final whistle, highlighting their focus, character, and ability to execute set-pieces under pressure. “We knew Fulham would make it difficult, as they always do at home,” he said. “The team showed discipline, patience, and determination. Set-pieces are an important part of our game, and it’s satisfying to see our hard work pay off in a crucial match.”

The victory further cements Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League and sends a strong message to their title rivals. Their ability to grind out narrow wins, capitalise on set-piece situations, and maintain defensive organisation makes them a formidable outfit in both domestic and European contexts. For Fulham, it was a night of frustration. Despite their commitment and tactical discipline, they were unable to break through the Gunners’ well-structured defence and were ultimately undone by Arsenal’s dead-ball expertise.

Beyond the statistics and results, the match was a testament to Arsenal’s growing maturity under Arteta. Their ability to manage tight games, remain focused in defensive phases, and exploit scoring opportunities when they arise demonstrates a team learning to blend flair with pragmatism. Fulham’s spirited performance, although ultimately unsuccessful, highlighted the challenges that even top teams face when confronting an increasingly versatile and organised Arsenal.

As the Premier League season unfolds, Arsenal’s performance at Craven Cottage stands out not only for the points gained but for the wider implications on confidence and momentum. With Trossard’s goal and the defensive resilience on display, the Gunners appear increasingly equipped to sustain their challenge at the top, while teams chasing them are left to ponder how to breach a side growing more formidable with each passing week.