AFC Bournemouth shocked the Premier League once again as Evanilson’s second-half winner secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The result marks Bournemouth’s first-ever away win against the Gunners and delivers a major blow to Arsenal’s top-four hopes.

The match started brightly for Mikel Arteta’s side, who named a full-strength XI despite an upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against PSG. Declan Rice, making his 100th appearance for Arsenal, opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a clinical finish following a well-orchestrated attacking move.

However, Arsenal’s fragility after taking the lead was once again exposed. Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, grew into the match and found their equalizer early in the second half through Dean Huijsen, who headed in from a long throw-in to stun the home crowd.

The decisive moment arrived in the 75th minute when Evanilson found the back of the net from a corner. Though VAR reviewed the goal for a potential handball, it was ultimately allowed to stand, sealing the comeback win. The Brazilian striker now has eight goals this season and played a key role in completing a Premier League double over Arsenal.

Arsenal have now dropped 21 points from winning positions in the 2024–25 season equaling their worst-ever Premier League record. Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted the team must improve mentally, especially with the second leg against Paris Saint-Germain fast approaching.

For Bournemouth, this result lifts them to eighth place in the Premier League table, significantly enhancing their hopes of qualifying for European competition next season. It’s a testament to their tactical discipline and fighting spirit particularly from Evanilson, whose performance will be remembered as one of the season’s standout moments.

As Arsenal shift focus to their European ambitions, this defeat serves as a harsh reminder that domestic consistency remains elusive. Meanwhile, Bournemouth continues to prove they are one of the most improved teams in the league this season.