Ryan Sessegnon scored the decisive goal as Fulham secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Craven Cottage, keeping their push for European qualification firmly alive.
The breakthrough came just before half-time when Sessegnon reacted quickest to convert a rebound after Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez saved an initial header from Saša Lukić.
The goal marked Sessegnon’s first since November and ultimately proved enough to separate the sides.
The result lifts Fulham into the mix for European places, moving them closer to the top six and reigniting their campaign after a recent dip in form.
Manager Marco Silva will be encouraged by his side’s disciplined defensive display, which limited Villa’s attacking threat for much of the contest.
Fulham thought they had doubled their lead in the second half when Timothy Castagne headed home, but the effort was ruled out following a foul on Martínez.
For Aston Villa, the defeat represents a missed opportunity to strengthen their bid for a top-five finish and near-certain qualification for European competition.
Manager Unai Emery cut a frustrated figure as his side struggled to find rhythm, particularly in the absence of injured midfielder Amadou Onana.
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Chances fell to Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, but neither could convert, while substitute Tammy Abraham also failed to make an impact late on.
With Thomas Tuchel watching from the stands, Villa’s performance lacked the sharpness expected at a crucial stage of the season, especially with a European semi-final looming.
Despite the setback, Villa remain in a strong position in the league standings, though the race for Champions League spots remains open.
Fulham, meanwhile, will look to build on the momentum as they chase a surprise European finish, with key fixtures ahead set to define their season.
