In a dramatic Premier League showdown at the Vitality Stadium, Enes Ünal delivered a moment of brilliance to secure a 1-1 draw for Bournemouth against West Ham United. The Turkish forward, coming off the bench late in the game, curled a sensational free-kick into the top corner in the 90th minute, leaving goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski helpless and the home crowd in awe.
Late, late drama on the south coast 🥵#BOUWHU pic.twitter.com/yFlbT8P5rP
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 16, 2024
Late Drama at the Vitality Stadium
The match was a tense, end-to-end affair, with both teams creating chances but struggling to find the breakthrough for much of the game. Bournemouth, riding high on their recent strong form, dominated large portions of the second half. However, they were repeatedly denied by an inspired Fabianski, who made a series of outstanding saves to frustrate the Cherries.
The drama intensified in the 87th minute when West Ham were awarded a controversial penalty. VAR intervened after Tyler Adams was deemed to have handled Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross. Lucas Paquetá stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, seemingly sealing all three points for the Hammers.
Ünal’s Moment of Brilliance
Bournemouth, however, refused to back down. Just three minutes later, they were awarded a free-kick from nearly 30 yards out. Substitute Enes Ünal, who had only been on the pitch for 10 minutes, stepped up and delivered a moment of magic. His curling effort soared over the wall and into the top-left corner, leaving Fabianski rooted to the spot.
The goal sparked wild celebrations from the Bournemouth players and fans. Ünal’s strike not only salvaged a crucial point but also capped off a thrilling encounter. Pundits were quick to praise the Turkish forward’s technique and composure under immense pressure.
Post-Match Reactions
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was full of praise for Ünal’s impact:
“Enes has that quality in his locker. It was a fantastic strike, and it shows the character of this team to fight until the very end.”
West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui, on the other hand, expressed frustration at his team’s inability to hold on for the win:
“We defended well for most of the game, but sometimes you have to applaud a moment of brilliance. Ünal’s free-kick was unstoppable.”
Key Stats and Implications
The result sees Bournemouth climb to sixth in the Premier League table, continuing their impressive campaign under Iraola. West Ham, meanwhile, remain in 14th place, with their away form becoming a growing concern—just one win in their last seven road games.
Ünal’s goal was his second in as many games, further cementing his reputation as a clutch performer for the Cherries. The strike also highlighted Bournemouth’s resilience, as they refused to let a late setback derail their efforts.
Looking Ahead
Bournemouth now face a tough away fixture against Manchester United, while West Ham will aim to bounce back when they host Brighton. For now, though, the spotlight remains firmly on Enes Ünal and his stunning free-kick—a goal that will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the Premier League season.
