Brighton’s season opener began with signs of rust, and memories of last year’s costly habit of surrendering leads soon resurfaced. After Sander Berge’s reckless foul, Matt O’Riley calmly converted from the spot to put Fulham back in contention. Chances were scarce until stoppage time, when Kenny Tete volleyed wide in the 95th minute. But Fulham refused to fade, and in the dying moments Rodrigo Muniz, introduced as a second-half substitute, smashed in Harry Wilson’s corner at the far post.
The Brazilian striker, recently linked with Newcastle and Atalanta, controlled with his chest before firing past the keeper. Fulham’s traveling fans erupted, urging him to remain at the club. Manager Marco Silva praised his forward, saying, “He’s very strong. Rodrigo created something with the fans that is not easy to do.” A dramatic equaliser rescued Fulham’s opening night.