Premier League
2:00 p.mMay 9, 2026
Regular season – 36
Craven Cottage
Referee: Andy Madley, England
Fulham
Bournemouth
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
0.95
Expected Goals (xG)
0.73
Passing by
440 (88%)
Accurate passes
286 (85%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
Premier League Ranking – Premier League
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – Champions League (League phase)
- Promotion – Europa League (League phase)
- Promotion – Conference League (Play Offs)
- Relegation – Championship
Bournemouth secured a crucial away win at Craven Cottage, with a second-half goal from Rayan securing a 1-0 win that strengthens their European push.
Fulham dominated possession but couldn’t find the breakthrough they needed. Bournemouth’s clinical finishing and defensive determination were decisive in this tight Premier League game. The result keeps the visitors in sixth while Fulham remain in mid-table.
The match started with intensity as both teams looked to make an early impact. Fulham controlled the ball in the early stages, enjoying 60 percent possession throughout the afternoon. However, Bournemouth’s compact defensive shape limited clear-cut chances in the early exchanges.
The first half took a dramatic turn in the 41st minute when Bournemouth’s R. Christie received a red card. The incident changed the tactical landscape, forcing the visitors to reorganize their approach. Fulham looked set to capitalize on their numerical advantage heading into the break.
Just before the break, the game became even more chaotic. Fulham’s J. Andersen saw red in the 45+7 minute, equalizing the numbers at 10 players each. The layoffs made for a fascinating second-half battle between two depleted teams.
Bournemouth made the most of their chance immediately after the restart. Rayan scored in the 53rd minute, finding the back of the net to give the visitors a precious lead. The goal came against the run of play, with Fulham creating more chances overall.
Fulham pressed hard to find an equalizer but could not break through. Rodrigo Muniz was shown a yellow card in the 50th minute as frustration grew. The Bournemouth keeper made three crucial saves to preserve the lead.
The game has turned into a scrappy affair with both teams struggling to keep pace. The yellow cards piled up as the tension mounted, with S. Lukic booked for Fulham in the 59th minute. A. Scott joined him in the book in the 65th minute.
Bournemouth’s defensive discipline remained firm despite sustained pressure from the home side. A. Robinson received a yellow card in the 77th minute, followed by J. King in the 82nd minute. M. Tavernier received the final warning in the 90th+6th minute.
The stats told a story of Fulham’s unrewarded dominance. Fulham attempted 13 shots in total, but managed just two on target, generating 0.95 expected goals. All five of Bournemouth’s shots on target proved more efficient, with their clinical approach earning them all three points.
Marcos Senesi starred for Bournemouth with a 7.9 rating, anchoring the defense during a testing afternoon. Timothy Castagne and Tom Cairney also impressed for Fulham despite the defeat. Rayan’s match-winning contribution earned him a 7.3 rating despite limited involvement.
This win takes Bournemouth to 52 points from 35 games, maintaining their push for European football. Fulham remain on 48 points, unchanged in their mid-table position. The difference between the teams now stands at four points with the season entering its final stretch.
