Bournemouth stunned Tottenham Hotspur with a crucial 1-0 victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, halting Spurs’ unbeaten run early in the Premier League season. Evanilson’s early goal proved the difference in a closely fought West London derby.
Match Summary
From the kickoff, Bournemouth set a disciplined and compact tone, absorbing Tottenham’s pressure and looking for opportunities to hit on the counter-attack. The visitors broke the deadlock in the 12th minute after an incisive Bournemouth break saw Evanilson cleverly evade the Tottenham defense to slot home his third goal of the season.
Tottenham responded with urgency, maintaining possession and creating chances, but were unable to penetrate Bournemouth’s well-organized defensive unit. Bournemouth’s goalkeeper was outstanding, making several crucial saves to deny Tottenham’s attempts from close range and from outside the box.
Despite Tottenham dominating much of the second half with 63% possession, Bournemouth’s resolute defense and tactical discipline held strong. Several late Tottenham efforts, including a dangerous free-kick and a curling effort from distance, were off target or expertly dealt with.
Key Facts & Stats
- Goals: Evanilson (12’)
- Possession: Tottenham 63% — Bournemouth 37%
- Shots (on target): Tottenham 14 (6) — Bournemouth 8 (4)
- Corners: Tottenham 7 — Bournemouth 3
- Pass Accuracy: Tottenham 85% — Bournemouth 78%
- Fouls Committed: Tottenham 11 — Bournemouth 13
- Saves: Bournemouth keeper 6; Tottenham keeper 4
- Attendance: 62,451 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Player Highlights
- Evanilson (Bournemouth): Efficient and clinical with his goal, pressing constantly and contributing defensively.
- Bournemouth Goalkeeper: Commanded his area confidently, with outstanding reflexes crucial to maintaining the clean sheet.
- Tottenham’s Son Heung-min: Active in attack but was well marked and narrowly missed several key chances.
- Tottenham’s Captain: Led by example in midfield but struggled to unlock Bournemouth’s defense.
Tactical Observations
Bournemouth deployed a 4-4-2 formation with two banks of four protecting the defense, relying on quick transitions and exploiting spaces left by Tottenham’s attacking full-backs. Tottenham operated in a 4-2-3-1 shape, pushing high and wide, but lacked decisive finishing.
Bournemouth’s defensive discipline and work rate frustrated Spurs, highlighting Southampton’s tactical growth under their manager.
Manager Reactions
- Bournemouth’s Manager: Praised his side’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing.
- Tottenham’s Manager: Acknowledged the disappointment but stressed the need to improve composure in front of goal and defensive concentration.
Bournemouth’s victory at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is a testament to their tactical maturing and presents early challenges for Spurs as the Premier League season unfolds. The result adds excitement in this highly competitive London derby rivalry.