In a Premier League encounter brimming with drama and controversy, AFC Bournemouth staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Nottingham Forest 3-2 at a stunned City Ground.
Forest's Flying Start Fades
The match began perfectly for the home side, with Anthony Elanga breaking the deadlock after just 23 minutes. The Swedish winger capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home, sending the Forest faithful into raptures. Their joy doubled shortly before half-time when Willy Boly powered a header into the net from a Morgan Gibbs-White free-kick, seemingly putting Forest in complete control.
The Cherries' Stunning Fightback
However, the narrative flipped dramatically after the break. Bournemouth emerged with renewed vigour and halved the deficit just before the hour mark. The influential Dominic Solanke was on hand to tap in from close range after a goalmouth scramble, setting up a grandstand finish.
The equaliser arrived with just over ten minutes remaining, and it was that man Solanke again. The striker displayed impeccable timing and technique to meet Marcus Tavernier's cross with a brilliant looping header that left goalkeeper Matt Turner stranded.
A Late, Late Heartbreak for Forest
As the match appeared to be heading for a share of the points, Bournemouth delivered the knockout blow in the 87th minute. Substitute Philip Billing found space on the edge of the box and unleashed a low, driven shot that flew past Turner, completing a stunning turnaround and silencing the home crowd.
The result leaves Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper under intense scrutiny, with his team having now failed to win in their last five Premier League matches. For Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, it's a signature victory that showcases his team's resilience and fighting spirit away from home.
