The 2010 Europa League Round of 16 produced one of the most memorable nights in Fulham’s history, as they pulled off an incredible 4-1 victory over Juventus at Craven Cottage. Trailing 3-1 from the first leg, Roy Hodgson’s side completed a stunning comeback to knock out the Italian giants in front of a roaring home crowd.
The Lineups
Fulham’s starting XI for this historic match:
🧤 Goalkeeper: Mark Schwarzer
🛡️ Defenders: Stephen Kelly, Aaron Hughes (C), Brede Hangeland, Paul Konchesky
🛠️ Midfielders: Damien Duff, Chris Baird, Dickson Etuhu, Simon Davies
🎯 Forwards: Zoltán Gera, Bobby Zamora
Juventus starting XI:
🧤 Goalkeeper: Antonio Chimenti
🛡️ Defenders: Hasan Salihamidžić, Jonathan Zebina, Fabio Cannavaro, Fabio Grosso
🛠️ Midfielders: Felipe Melo, Momo Sissoko, Mauro Camoranesi,
🎯 Forwards: Diego, Antonio Candreva, David Trezeguet,
A Night to Remember
Early Setback – Trezeguet Strikes
Fulham’s task became even more daunting when David Trezeguet put Juventus ahead in just the 2nd minute, making it 4-1 on aggregate. The Cottagers needed three goals just to force extra time.
Zamora Starts the Fightback
The comeback began in the 9th minute, when Bobby Zamora expertly controlled a lofted pass from Paul Konchesky before firing past Chimenti. The Craven Cottage crowd erupted, sensing something special.
Gera’s Double Turns the Tide
Just before half-time, Zoltán Gera made it 2-1 on the night, finishing from close range after a cross from Simon Davies. The Hungarian then completed his brace in the 49th minute, converting a coolly taken penalty after Diego handled in the box. Suddenly, Fulham were level on aggregate (4-4) and just one goal away from a famous upset.
Cannavaro Sees Red
Juventus' task became even harder when Fabio Cannavaro was sent off in the 27th minute for bringing down Gera, leaving the Italian giants with 10 men for over an hour.
Dempsey’s Moment of Magic
With the tie hanging in the balance, Clint Dempsey, coming off the bench, produced a moment of pure brilliance. In the 82nd minute, the American forward executed a sensational chip from outside the box, looping the ball over Chimenti and into the net. 4-1 to Fulham, 5-4 on aggregate—Juventus were out!
Aftermath & Legacy
- Fulham completed one of the greatest European comebacks, reaching the Europa League final that season.
- Juventus suffered humiliation and sacked manager Alberto Zaccheroni later that year.
- Clint Dempsey’s chip remains one of the most iconic goals in Fulham’s history.
- This game cemented Roy Hodgson’s legacy, as he led Fulham to their first-ever European final.
Final Thoughts
Fulham’s 4-1 victory over Juventus stands as one of the greatest nights in the club’s history. Overcoming a two-goal deficit against a European powerhouse like Juventus proved that even the underdogs can create unforgettable football moments.