Bournemouth`s aspirations for European competition are invigorated after a victory over Fulham, all thanks to an early goal from Antoine Semenyo.
The Ghanaian forward propelled the Cherries past Fulham in the standings for a Europa Conference League spot with a brilliant goal scored within the first minute of the match.
This was Semenyo’s eighth goal of the season, lifting Bournemouth to eighth place on goal difference and ending their seven-game winless streak.
Fulham will rue their missed opportunities, having controlled much of the game but failing to convert their chances.
The match was significant not only for European qualification but also as a showcase for two managers, Bournemouth`s Andoni Iraola and Fulham`s Marco Silva, both reportedly linked with the Tottenham Hotspur job.
Bournemouth made one change to their starting lineup from the draw against West Ham, with Marcos Senesi replacing Illia Zabarnyi. Fulham remained unchanged after their win against Liverpool.
However, Fulham`s confidence from defeating Liverpool was quickly dashed at the Vitality Stadium.
Semenyo`s goal came at just 53 seconds, weaving through Fulham`s defense to score his fourth Premier League goal in 21 appearances. Alex Scott initiated the play, setting up Semenyo who skillfully placed the ball into the net.
Bournemouth almost extended their lead, but Evanilson`s close-range shot hit the crossbar. Fulham had chances too, with Rodrigo Muniz and Ryan Sessegnon testing Bournemouth`s goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Just before halftime, Bernd Leno, Fulham`s goalkeeper, denied Scott with a save.
In the second half, Zabarnyi was substituted in for Senesi. Leno also made a crucial save to prevent Tyler Adams from scoring. Fulham made further substitutions, and Kepa made a key save to stop Alex Iwobi from equalizing. Later, Kepa also saved a weak shot from Sasa Lukic.
Despite being called a “Chelsea reject” by Fulham fans, Kepa was named man of the match.
Late in the game, Fulham appealed for a penalty when Leno collided with Evanilson, but VAR ruled in Fulham`s favor, determining Leno had played the ball first.
