Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi experienced mixed emotions on Saturday as his side fell to a 2-1 defeat against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
The match marked a major personal milestone for the 29-year-old, who became the first Nigerian player to reach 300 Premier League appearances. However, the occasion was marred by Fulham’s fourth consecutive league loss under manager Marco Silva.
Iwobi played 89 minutes before being substituted with the score level at 1-1, but a 90th-minute strike from Bruno Guimarães sealed the victory for Newcastle, leaving Fulham empty-handed once again.
Speaking after the match, Iwobi expressed his disappointment at the result.
“Of course, we’re very disappointed,” he told Fulham’s official website. “We knew it was going to be a hard game and a tough place to come to, but if we don’t win, then we shouldn’t lose — we should at least maintain the draw.
“Unfortunately, a last-minute winner is a dagger in the heart, but we have to pick ourselves up and go into next week’s game.”
Iwobi added that Fulham showed more energy and creativity in the second half but failed to take their chances.
“We had a bigger spark after the break. There was more dynamism down the flanks and we created chances, but if we don’t take them, good teams like Newcastle will punish us.
“We limited their chances, but a couple of mistakes cost us. As long as we stay consistent, give 100% and stay focused until the final whistle, I’m sure we’ll get the results we need.”
Reflecting on his 300th Premier League appearance, the former Arsenal man said it was a proud moment in his career.
“It’s amazing — a big achievement to lead that among Nigerians, alongside the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha,” Iwobi said. “It’s an honour, but I’m not done yet. I’ll keep going and hopefully keep the record growing.”
Iwobi will next be in action when Fulham face Wycombe Wanderers in the EFL Cup fourth round at Adams Park on Tuesday.