Cesar Palacios delivered a commanding performance with a goal and an assist as Fulham defeated West Ham United 3-2 in the Carabao Cup third round. The victory caps a tight turnaround for Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad following their weekend draw at Anfield.
Arbeloa reshuffled his starting lineup at the London Stadium following Sunday’s demanding encounter against Liverpool. Deployed in the left half-space after resting against Liverpool, Palacios operated with total elegance and press resistance. Floating seamlessly across multiple attacking zones, he helped Fulham escape heavy pressure through rapid one-twos and minimal-touch through-passes. His creative vision paid immediate dividends when he set up Rodrigo Muniz for Fulham’s opening goal with a crisp pass into space. In the 37th minute, Palacios doubled the lead himself by receiving a ball over the top, controlling it with a perfect first touch, and slotting his finish cleanly past the goalkeeper into the far post.
Fulham dictated play for large stretches, absorbing late pressure to protect their advantage.
Palacios had an opportunity to ice the game in the 93rd minute, but he took too long to shoot, allowing the West Ham defence to close the angle. Despite that late missed chance, his dominant performance proved decisive in securing Fulham’s 3-2 victory away from home. Arbeloa’s squad rotation proved essential during this heavy schedule. Muniz took full advantage of his start before making way for Gonzalo Garcia in the 68th minute, while midfielder Manuel Angel made his senior debut off the bench to help close out the match. With players under the Real Madrid umbrella making key contributions across European football—including Franco Mastantuono featuring for 60 minutes in Fiorentina’s fixture against Pisa—Palacios’ outstanding display at London Stadium underlines his development and provides Fulham with vital momentum entering the next round.
