Decisive figure powers Birmingham past Preston with one-man attacking burst | OneFootball

Ibrahim Osman set the tone in the 10th minute by assisting the opener, then scored himself as Birmingham beat Preston 2-1. His direct running and end product swung a tight Championship game.

Moments after seeing a shot blocked, Osman kept his composure and supplied the final pass for a close-range finish (10.). The move came from the left side of the box, where he repeatedly found room.

He then doubled the advantage with a right-footed strike from the centre of the area following a corner (16.). The precision of his finish underlined how quickly he attacked second balls.

Osman's impact was concentrated yet decisive: one goal, one assist, two successful dribbles and two key passes in 37 minutes before he was replaced because of injury (37.). He also made five touches in the box, constantly threatening between defenders.

Because he attacked the left channel early and drove into central spaces, Preston's back line was forced to retreat, allowing Birmingham to control the game's key phases.

Birmingham climb from 14th to 10th and host Bristol City next. Preston visit Sheffield United.