Heartbreak for Fulham as Lookman’s Failed Panenka Seals Defeat
In a dramatic Premier League clash that will be remembered for its gut-wrenching finale, Ademola Lookman’s disastrous Panenka penalty attempt in stoppage time condemned Fulham to a 1-0 defeat against West Ham at the London Stadium. The match, which had been largely uneventful for 90 minutes, exploded into life during injury time with Tomas Soucek’s late winner and Fulham’s subsequent penalty drama that left manager Scott Parker fuming on the sidelines.
Match Analysis: How West Ham Ground Out Victory
Defensive Resilience Meets Attractive Ineptitude
The game followed a familiar pattern for both sides this season – West Ham showing their trademark defensive solidity under David Moyes while Fulham continued their struggles in front of goal. The Hammers created the better chances throughout, with Sébastien Haller and Aaron Cresswell both rattling the crossbar in the first half. Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who would later be named Man of the Match, made several crucial saves to keep his team in contention.
“West Ham’s defensive organization was textbook Moyes,” noted Baji Live pundit Michael Carrick. “They limited Fulham to half-chances and when they did concede the penalty, Fabianski’s experience shone through.”
The 92nd Minute Rollercoaster
The match appeared destined for a goalless draw until the dramatic final moments:
- 90+2′: Tomas Soucek fires West Ham ahead after good work from substitute Said Benrahma
- 90+4′: VAR awards Fulham a penalty for Benrahma’s foul on Tom Cairney
- 90+5′: Lookman’s weak Panenka attempt easily saved by Lukasz Fabianski
Tomas Soucek’s injury-time strike looked to have won it for West Ham before the late penalty drama
Tactical Breakdown: Why Did Lookman Take the Penalty?
One of the major talking points post-match was why Aleksandar Mitrović, Fulham‘s designated penalty taker, didn’t step up for the crucial spot-kick. Baji Live sources revealed:
- Mitrović had missed Fulham’s previous penalty at Sheffield United
- The Serbian striker was reportedly carrying a hamstring injury
- Lookman had shown confidence in training with Panenka attempts
- Parker later confirmed Mitrović remained first choice when fit
“Penalty decisions often reveal team dynamics,” observed former England striker Alan Smith on Baji Live. “When your main striker doesn’t step up in these moments, it speaks volumes about confidence levels.”
Player Ratings: Who Stood Out?
West Ham
- Fabianski (8/10): Crucial penalty save capped a solid performance
- Cresswell (7/10): Dangerous going forward, hit the woodwork
- Soucek (7/10): Late winner rewarded his midfield industry
Fulham
- Areola (8/10): Multiple key saves kept Fulham in the game
- Andersen (7/10): Composed at the back throughout
- Lookman (4/10): Good performance ruined by penalty miss
The devastated Lookman receives comfort from teammates after his costly error
What This Result Means
For West Ham:
- Continues their impressive start to the season
- Moves them into top half contention
- Shows their ability to grind out results
For Fulham:
- 16th consecutive London derby without a win
- Missed opportunity to climb out of relegation zone
- Questions remain about their attacking options
Looking Ahead: Post-International Break Fixtures
After the November international break:
- West Ham travel to Sheffield United (Nov 22)
- Fulham host Everton (Nov 21)
Both teams will hope key players return fresh from international duty as they prepare for crucial matches in their respective campaigns.
Baji Live will be providing comprehensive coverage of all the Premier League action as these London clubs look to build on this dramatic encounter. For more in-depth analysis and exclusive content, stay tuned to our Premier League hub.
