Arsenal’s attempt to finish in the Premier League’s top two took a huge hit as they suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth, who completed a league double over the Gunners on Sunday.
With half an eye on their Uefa Champions League semi-final second leg against PSG, Mikel Arteta’s side were not so sharp up front despite an impressive first half. Declan Rice, making his 100th Arsenal appearance, broke the deadlock in some style after finishing off a pass from Martin Ødegaard, rounding Kepa Arrizabalaga and dispatching into an empty net.
Arsenal had the better of the early exchanges, with shots falling Rice and Leandro Trossard and Martinelli’s threat down the left. But they didn’t take advantage, and Bournemouth punished them.
A long throw-in by substitute Antoine Semenyo was met by the diving Dean Huijsen for the goal in the 67th minute. Moments later, Evanilson grabbed the winner with a disputed finish at the far post, capitalising on a flick-on from Marcus Tavernier. The goal was awarded after a long VAR check for handball.
The defeat heaps pressure on Arsenal in the race for a place in the top five as they lost home matches in succession for the first time in more than a year. For Bournemouth, meanwhile, victory elevated them to eighth, sustaining their dream of qualifying for Europe next season.
