Calvin Bassey and Lesley Ugochukwu were both on the scoresheet as Fulham edged Burnley 3–2 in a five-goal Premier League thriller at Turf Moor on Saturday.

Bassey marked a long-awaited return to the scoresheet with what proved to be the decisive goal, heading Fulham back in front midway through the first half.

The Nigerian international powered home a Harry Wilson cross to restore the visitors’ advantage, scoring for the first time in the Premier League since 15 February 2025, when he netted the winner in Fulham’s 2–1 league victory over Nottingham Forest at Craven Cottage.

Fulham had made a strong start to the contest, taking an early lead through former Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, who finished from close range to put the visitors ahead.

Burnley responded positively and were rewarded when Lesley Ugochukwu drew the hosts level, converting from inside the box after being picked out by Josh Cullen.

Ugochukwu, the nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Apam, ensured the contest remained finely balanced.

Bassey’s header gave Fulham a 2–1 advantage heading into the interval, and the visitors extended their lead after the break.

Samuel Chukwueze continued his impressive form by supplying the assist for Fulham’s third goal, threading a precise pass through to Harry Wilson, who finished calmly to make it 3–1.

Burnley pulled one back late on to set up a tense finale, but Fulham held firm to secure all three points.

Bassey has been named in Eric Chelle’s 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

He is expected to report to the Super Eagles camp alongside Fulham teammates Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze, with the trio set to feature in Nigeria’s pre-AFCON friendly against Egypt before the squad travels to Morocco for the tournament.

Wale Adejumo