AFC Bournemouth continued their impressive start to the Premier League season with a dramatic 3–1 comeback victory over Fulham at the Vitality Stadium on Friday night. A late double from Antoine Semenyo and a spectacular strike from Justin Kluivert turned the game on its head after Ryan Sessegnon had given the visitors a second-half lead. The win sees Bournemouth climb to second place in the table, just one point behind leaders Liverpool, and underlines their growing credentials as one of the league’s most dangerous and resilient sides.
Fulham Strike First but Bournemouth Hit Back
The match began at a measured tempo, with Bournemouth enjoying the bulk of possession but struggling to create clear-cut chances against a well-organised Fulham defence. The visitors, keen to bounce back after a disappointing defeat last weekend, showed discipline and structure, frustrating the Cherries and threatening sporadically on the counter.
The breakthrough came in the 70th minute, when Ryan Sessegnon found space inside the box to sweep home a low finish past Neto, silencing the home crowd and putting Fulham 1–0 ahead. It was a goal that seemed to validate Fulham’s defensive approach and left Bournemouth facing the prospect of a first home defeat of the season.
Yet Bournemouth’s response was immediate and emphatic. Rather than panic, Andoni Iraola’s side showed the composure and resilience that has become a hallmark of their early-season form. Just eight minutes after going behind, they were level.
The equaliser arrived in the 78th minute courtesy of Antoine Semenyo, who produced a moment of individual brilliance. Picking up the ball on the left, the Ghanaian winger cut inside and rifled a powerful shot past Bernd Leno from a tight angle to spark wild celebrations inside the Vitality. It was a goal that encapsulated Bournemouth’s character — direct, fearless, and relentless in pursuit of points.
Super Sub Kluivert Turns the Tide
With momentum swinging firmly in their favour, Bournemouth pressed for a winner — and it arrived just six minutes later from substitute Justin Kluivert. The Dutch forward, introduced to inject pace and creativity, made an instant impact. In the 84th minute, he picked up a loose ball 25 yards from goal and unleashed a swerving strike that flew past Leno into the top corner.
The goal was a statement moment, not just in the match but in Bournemouth’s season so far. Kluivert’s ability to change the game from the bench highlighted the depth and versatility in Iraola’s squad — a quality that could prove crucial as the season wears on.
Bournemouth were not done. As Fulham pushed forward in search of an equaliser, they left gaps at the back, and in stoppage time, Semenyo struck again. A lightning-quick counterattack saw the winger played through on goal, and he calmly slotted home his second of the night to seal a memorable 3–1 win.
Semenyo Leads the Charge
The star of the evening was undoubtedly Antoine Semenyo. His brace not only rescued Bournemouth from defeat but also showcased his growing importance to the team. Still only 25, Semenyo’s pace, power, and composure in front of goal have made him one of the most exciting attacking players in the league this season.
“Antoine was exceptional,” manager Andoni Iraola said after the match. “He gave us energy, belief, and quality when we needed it most. His goals changed the game.”
Kluivert’s contribution also drew praise, with Iraola describing his strike as “a goal worthy of winning any match.” The impact of substitutes like Kluivert is becoming a feature of Bournemouth’s campaign — evidence of a team with depth and confidence.
Bournemouth Rising Under Iraola
Friday’s victory continues Bournemouth’s strong start under Iraola, who has instilled a proactive, high-intensity style of play since arriving at the club. With 14 points from seven games, the Cherries now sit second in the Premier League table — a remarkable achievement for a side that spent much of last season battling relegation.
While it is still early days, Bournemouth’s performances suggest that this is not merely a flash in the pan. Their mix of youthful energy, tactical flexibility, and attacking flair has made them one of the most entertaining teams to watch this season. Wins like this — earned through resilience and belief — only reinforce the sense that Bournemouth are ready to challenge the established order.
Fulham Left Searching for Answers
For Fulham, it was a bitterly disappointing evening. After taking the lead, Marco Silva’s side appeared in control, only to collapse under Bournemouth’s late pressure. Defensive lapses and an inability to respond after conceding cost them dearly — issues that have plagued Fulham in recent weeks.
“We lost control of the game after going ahead,” Silva admitted post-match. “Bournemouth grew in confidence and we couldn’t handle their intensity. We need to learn from this quickly.”
Fulham’s defeat leaves them hovering just above the relegation zone, with pressure mounting to turn performances into points.
What’s Next
Bournemouth will look to continue their strong run when they travel to face Newcastle United next weekend, while Fulham return to Craven Cottage for a crucial clash against Crystal Palace. For Iraola’s men, belief is building that this season could be something special — and with Semenyo in this kind of form, few will relish facing them.
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