Bournemouth climbed to ninth in the Premier League table with a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, courtesy of a decisive first-half header from 19-year-old defender Dean Huijsen. The young centre-back capitalized on Tottenham’s persistent struggles with set-pieces, nodding home Marcus Tavernier’s corner in the 17th minute at the Vitality Stadium.
Huijsen found himself unmarked at the back post, taking full advantage of a lapse in Spurs’ defense. The goal left Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou visibly frustrated as his side struggled to recover from the early setback. Despite starting brightly, Spurs lost momentum after the goal and could not find a way back into the game.
Tottenham’s £65 million summer signing, Dominic Solanke, was active in the early stages, registering two of the visitors’ first three shots. However, the home crowd was quick to remind him of his switch with a smattering of boos.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, looked threatening throughout the first half, with Tavernier and Evanilson both coming close to doubling the lead.
Postecoglou made tactical adjustments in the second half, introducing captain Son Heung-min for Pape Matar Sarr. Spurs improved marginally, with James Maddison, Pedro Porro, and Dejan Kulusevski testing Bournemouth’s defense. However, their search for an equalizer left them vulnerable at the back, and Bournemouth had the better chances in the closing stages.
Evanilson thought he had secured a second goal for the hosts, only for it to be ruled out for offside. Despite this, Bournemouth held firm to claim all three points, moving above Tottenham in the standings.
Postecoglou’s headaches were compounded when defender Ben Davies limped off with an apparent hamstring injury. With just one fit centre-back available, Spurs face a daunting task in Sunday’s derby against Chelsea.
Bournemouth also face an injury concern of their own. Manager Andoni Iraola revealed post-match that defender Marcos Senesi is likely to be sidelined long-term with a severe quadriceps injury.
The result shows Tottenham’s vulnerability in defending set-pieces, a recurring issue this season. For Bournemouth, the win highlights their growing confidence under Iraola as they continue to climb the Premier League table.
