EPL: Arsenal's Second-Place Hopes Take Hit After Bournemouth Defeat

Bournemouth pulled off a stunning 2-1 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, with Evanilson scoring a late winner to secure a historic victory.

Bournemouth stunned Arsenal with a 2-1 comeback victory, dealing a significant blow to Arsenal's hopes of finishing second in the Premier League. The win marked Bournemouth's first-ever league double over Arsenal.

The defeat came at a time when Arsenal was focused on securing a top-five finish, despite having a Champions League semi-final against PSG looming.

100th Arsenal appearance. On the scoresheet. pic.twitter.com/v6apJ1yBV7

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 3, 2025

Declan Rice marked his 100th Arsenal appearance with a notable performance, creating the Gunners' first chance. He flashed an angled strike wide after a neat combination with Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli. Rice had another opportunity shortly after, but shot wide once more, courtesy of a pass from Martinelli.

The Cherries had a promising chance of their own when Evanilson headed a close-range effort over the bar from Milos Kerkez's cross, highlighting a key moment in the opening 25 minutes.

🍒 @afcbournemouth win away at Arsenal for the first time!#ARSBOU pic.twitter.com/8X0J79odDy

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 3, 2025

Gabriel Martinelli's energetic performance on the left flank created problems for Bournemouth, and he played a brilliant pass to Leandro Trossard, whose arched header was impressively saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga. Declan Rice then scored the breakthrough goal, expertly controlling Martin Ødegaard's through ball, rounding Kepa, and coolly slotting the ball into the empty net.

However, Arsenal's defense appeared vulnerable, and Evanilson's long-range effort that narrowly sailed over the bar served as a warning, highlighting the visitors' threat after David Raya was caught out of position.

After halftime, Arsenal pressed hard for a second goal, with Bukayo Saka heavily involved. The England winger received a precise pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly, cut inside onto his right foot, and unleashed a strike that narrowly missed the target.

Despite Arsenal's pressure, Bournemouth equalized in the 67th minute with remarkable simplicity. Antoine Semenyo, who had been on the pitch for just two minutes, launched a long throw-in towards Dean Huijsen, whose superb glancing header found its way past David Raya, leveling the score.

Bournemouth wasn't finished yet, as Evanilson scored a decisive goal with an unorthodox finish at the far post. The goal came after Marcus Tavernier flicked on Alex Scott's corner, and although it underwent a lengthy VAR check for offside and handball, it was ultimately given.

The win marked a historic moment for Bournemouth, securing their first-ever victory away at Arsenal. The result moved them up to eighth in the table, boosting their hopes of securing European qualification for the first time.

Could Arsenal be at risk of losing 2nd place after defeat to Bournemouth? 🤨 pic.twitter.com/Ztoi94XSqG

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 3, 2025

The defeat marked Arsenal's first consecutive home losses in all competitions in 16 months, leaving them vulnerable in the top-five battle and anxious about their standings.