Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson struck as Bournemouth claimed their first-ever victory over Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium.

 

Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson struck as Bournemouth claimed their first-ever victory over Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium.

Building on their recent form, which saw them take four points from matches against Aston Villa and Arsenal, the Cherries started with energy and intent. Within just two minutes, Ederson was called into action, making a double save to deny both Semenyo and Justin Kluivert.

With momentum on their side, Bournemouth’s high pressing paid off in the ninth minute when Milos Kerkez’s cut-back found Semenyo, who slotted home to give the hosts an early lead. Manchester City struggled to find rhythm in a frustrating first half, failing to register a single shot on target.

Bournemouth maintained their confidence in the second half and nearly doubled their lead immediately, but Ederson reacted quickly to keep out Evanilson's attempt. However, Evanilson soon capitalized, sliding in to meet another low cross from Kerkez and guiding it into the bottom corner.

The Cherries nearly added a third when Adam Smith, faced with an open goal, sent his shot over the bar after Marcus Tavernier’s strike rebounded off the post.

City's first real chance came in the 80th minute, though Erling Haaland’s volley lacked power. Moments later, Josko Gvardiol’s header brought a glimmer of hope, making it 2-1, but City couldn’t find an equalizer.

In the dying moments, Haaland nearly rescued a point, but his close-range effort was saved on the line, and his rebound struck the post.

This defeat sees City drop to second place as Liverpool climbed to the top after their comeback win over Brighton, while Bournemouth’s win propels them up to eighth.