Jiménez Sets New Premier League Penalty Benchmark as Fulham Defeat Sunderland 3–1

Mexican Striker Maintains Perfect Spot-Kick Record in Vital Victory at the Stadium of Light

Raúl Jiménez strengthened his place in Premier League history on Sunday afternoon, extending his flawless penalty record as Fulham F.C. secured an impressive 3–1 victory over Sunderland A.F.C. at the Stadium of Light.

The Cottagers travelled to Wearside under pressure, having suffered three consecutive league defeats, but produced a composed and clinical display to return to winning ways.

Jiménez opened the scoring nine minutes into the second half, rising intelligently to meet an inviting corner from Alex Iwobi and heading beyond the Sunderland goalkeeper after escaping his marker.

The Mexican international was later presented with the opportunity to double Fulham’s advantage when Brian Brobbey was penalised for pulling the shirt of Calvin Bassey inside the penalty area. Jiménez showed trademark composure from twelve yards, calmly sending Robin Roefs the wrong way to register his eighth Premier League goal of the season.

The strike also carried historical significance. Jiménez has now converted all 13 of his Premier League penalties, establishing the best 100 per cent conversion rate of any player in the competition’s history. His flawless record surpasses notable figures including Yaya Touré, who scored all 11 of his spot-kicks for Manchester City F.C., and Dimitar Berbatov, who maintained a perfect record from nine penalties during his time at Manchester United F.C..

Sunderland briefly threatened a comeback when midfielder Enzo Le Fée reduced the deficit. However, Fulham swiftly restored their two-goal cushion as Iwobi applied a composed finish from Harry Wilson’s precise through ball, effectively securing all three points.

Despite scoring twice and delivering a decisive performance, Jiménez was withdrawn just four minutes after netting his second goal, with Rodrigo Muniz introduced in his place.

Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Fulham manager Marco Silva clarified that the substitution was precautionary rather than disciplinary.

“No, I had to make that decision because we were talking about a striker who had four or five fouls committed against him and had already received one yellow card,” Silva explained.

“It was becoming difficult for him. Every time he went towards the ball, it resulted in a foul. I did not want to take any risks.”

The victory lifts Fulham into 10th place in the Premier League table ahead of their forthcoming fixture against Tottenham Hotspur F.C. at Craven Cottage, as Silva’s side seek to build renewed momentum in their campaign.