Semenyo Shines as Bournemouth Hold Chelsea in 2-2 Thriller

Semenyo Shines as Bournemouth Hold Chelsea in 2-2 Thriller

Antoine Semenyo was the standout figure at Stamford Bridge, playing a decisive role in a high-octane 2-2 draw between Chelsea and Bournemouth. On the brink of a reported £65m move to Manchester City, the Ghanaian forward delivered two assists via long throw-ins and even conceded a penalty in a chaotic first half.

This result means Chelsea have now dropped a league-high 15 points from winning positions, while Bournemouth’s 10-match winless run continues — but they’ll take heart from this gritty away performance.

First Half: Fireworks from the Start

Bournemouth struck first in the 6th minute, with Semenyo’s long throw leading to a David Brooks tap-in. Chelsea responded quickly. A VAR-reviewed foul by Semenyo on Estevao Willian gave Cole Palmer the chance to level from the spot — which he calmly did in the 15th minute.

Only eight minutes later, Enzo Fernandez fired Chelsea into the lead, capitalizing on Bournemouth’s slack marking.

But the Cherries weren’t done. Semenyo’s second long throw caused more chaos, leading to Justin Kluivert’s close-range finish in the 27th minute. The half ended 2-2, with Bournemouth registering 14 shots and forcing several saves from Robert Sanchez.

Second Half: Missed Chances and Tactical Changes

Enzo Maresca brought on Reece James and Pedro Neto at half-time, hoping to regain control. Chelsea had the better of the second half but lacked cutting edge:

• Estevao was denied by ex-Chelsea keeper Djordje Petrovic

• Fernandez missed a clear chance in the 77th minute

• Joao Pedro replaced Palmer, prompting boos from the home fans

In stoppage time, Enes Unal volleyed over from a brilliant Amine Adli cross, missing a golden opportunity to snatch the win for Bournemouth.

Chelsea Analysis: A Miserable December Ends

Chelsea’s 2025 form slump deepens, with only one win in their last seven league games. From pushing Arsenal in November to sliding toward mid-table, this month has exposed:

• Fragile game management

• Inconsistent substitutions

• A troubling trend of squandering leads

Maresca’s team now sits closer to 15th place than the top four, and a trip to Manchester City awaits, with Moises Caicedo suspended.

Fan frustration is growing, with boos ringing out at full time. Champions League qualification — once an expectation — now feels like a distant target unless results improve fast.

Bournemouth Analysis: Semenyo the Star in Shop Window

If this was Antoine Semenyo’s farewell, he made it count.

• 2 assists

• Defensive work rate

• Fearless physical presence

• A potential £65m asset for Man City

The 25-year-old didn’t hold back despite his looming move, showing professionalism and commitment. With Chelsea, United, Arsenal, and Liverpool all having monitored him, City appear to have won the race for a complete forward.

Bournemouth, meanwhile, showed resilience and tactical intent — even if they remain winless in 10. But with Semenyo departing, replacing his impact will be a big challenge for the Cherries in January.

Match Stats Snapshot

What’s Next?

Chelsea travel to face Manchester City in the New Year — a daunting test.

Bournemouth aim to end their drought when they host Burnley, a critical clash in the relegation fight.