Dress rehearsal gone wrong: Arsenal falter before facing PSG
Arsenal hopes of creating momentum before their vital Champions League match with Paris St-Germain in midweek were struck as Bournemouth came from behind to win at Emirates Stadium and boost their European dreams.
Iraola’s Side Mount Second-Half Comeback as Arsenal Suffer Setback Before Champions League Semi-Final
Arsenal‘s preparations for their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg in France were dealt a blow as they fell to a surprise 2-1 home defeat against Bournemouth. Despite Mikel Arteta fielding a full-strength side at the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners were undone by a determined second-half comeback from the visitors.
Rice Shines Early, But Bournemouth Turn the Tide
Declan Rice, marking his 100th appearance for Arsenal, put the hosts ahead in the first half. The midfielder showed great composure to round goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga before slotting home, giving the Gunners a deserved lead.
However, Bournemouth grew into the game and made their dominance count after the break. A long throw from Antoine Semenyo, who had come off the bench, led to a towering header from Dean Huijsen in the 67th minute to bring the score level.
Just eight minutes later, Evanilson bundled the ball in from a corner, giving Andoni Iraola’s side their first-ever win at the Emirates and sending shockwaves through the Premier League title race.
Arsenal Wobble as City Close In
Despite the loss, Arsenal remain in second place, but Manchester City are now just three points behind with momentum on their side. The defeat will be a concern for Arteta ahead of Arsenal’s trip to France, where they must overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit to reach the Champions League final.
Bournemouth’s European Dreams Still Alive
The result is monumental for Bournemouth, who climb to eighth in the table, reigniting their hopes of securing European football next season. Their victory ends a disappointing run of just one win in nine games, and will serve as a major confidence boost ahead of tough upcoming matches against Aston Villa and Manchester City.
Semenyo’s impact off the bench highlights Iraola’s tactical acumen, and Bournemouth’s belief is clearly growing at a crucial point in the season.
With both teams entering defining stretches of their respective campaigns, this match could prove a turning point—for very different reasons.