Super Eagles: Alex Iwobi forces bizarre goal to help Fulham deny Aston Villa

Nicolas Jackson gave the hosts the lead in the 39th minute with a composed finish, but Villa’s dominance was not reflected on the scoreboard after John McGinn had earlier smashed a penalty against the crossbar.

Fulham grew into the contest after the break and equalised in the 64th minute through an own goal by Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The equaliser came from a corner delivered by Iwobi, and Suzuki, who caught the ball and bounced it over the line for a bizarre own-goal.

Iwobi was lively throughout and involved in several promising attacks before being replaced by Tom Cairney in the 75th minute.

Bassey, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United, was composed and physical throughout, making important blocks and clearances.

The Nigerian centre-back dealt well with Villa’s attackers and received a yellow card late in the first half for a foul.

The point was a positive result for Álvaro Arbeloa’s side, who were looking for three straight wins, but will be happy to avoid defeat against a Villa side that had won 7 of their last 9 games.