Nigeria and Super Eagles duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey will return to Old Trafford when Fulham take on Manchester United on Friday night in the Premier League opener.
As the 2024/25 Premier League season kicks off, all eyes turn to Old Trafford for a Friday night spectacle between Manchester United and Fulham.
This fixture carries extra weight, particularly for Fulham's Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, who return to the scene of their unforgettable victory last season.
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Rewind to that cold February evening when Fulham, led by the Nigerian duo, stunned the football world.
After a dull first half, Bassey, the defensive titan, opened the scoring with a thunderous strike that silenced the Theatre of Dreams.
But it was Iwobi who delivered the coup de grâce, netting a stoppage-time winner that secured Fulham's first league victory at Old Trafford in 21 years.
That historic win was more than just three points for Fulham. It was a statement of intent, a showcase of Nigerian talent, and a severe blow to United's Champions League aspirations.
The images of Iwobi's euphoric celebration, embodying Nigerian pride, are still fresh in the minds of football fans.
Iwobi not only scored the winner but delivered a masterclass against the Red Devils. He created four chances, made four key passes, won 100% of his tackles, and made seven recoveries and one interception.
Now, as they return to Old Trafford, the question on everyone's lips is: Can lightning strike twice?
For Manchester United, this opener represents a chance for redemption. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe now part of the ownership structure, expectations are sky-high.
The Red Devils will be keen to banish the ghosts of last season's disappointment and start their campaign on a high note.
Fulham, buoyed by their previous success, will enter the match with quiet confidence. Marco Silva's men, particularly Iwobi and Bassey, have shown they can compete with the best.
Their pre-match content, featuring "The Calvin Bassey and Iwobi Show," has only heightened the anticipation surrounding their return.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the stage is set for another thrilling encounter.
But the key questions are, will United exact revenge, or can Fulham's Nigerian stars repeat their heroics? One thing is certain - with Iwobi's wizardry and Bassey's commanding presence, Fulham pose a genuine threat to United's aspirations.
This season opener promises to be more than just a game. It's a clash of redemption versus ambition, of established giants versus emerging talents.
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