
Chelsea captain Reece James rescued a point with a dramatic stoppage-time free-kick in a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth.
While the result extended the Blues’ winless run to five Premier League games, it showcased moments of promise in an otherwise frustrating campaign. For Bournemouth, the result highlighted their resilience as they extended their unbeaten streak to 10 matches in all competitions, keeping their European hopes alive.
Key Moments from the Match
Chelsea looked eager to end their recent slump and made a bright start, taking the lead in the 13th minute through Cole Palmer. A delightful reverse pass from Nicolas Jackson set up Palmer, who coolly outfoxed Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers with an ice-cold finish. However, Jackson’s ongoing struggles in front of goal resurfaced as he squandered two golden chances to extend the lead, including a point-blank header on the stroke of half-time.
Bournemouth made Chelsea pay for their missed opportunities early in the second half. Substitute Justin Kluivert, a standout performer for the Cherries, converted a penalty after Moisés Caicedo’s rash challenge on Antoine Semenyo. Chelsea’s frustration deepened when VAR controversially spared Bournemouth’s David Brooks, who escaped with just a yellow card after pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair.
The Cherries capitalised on the chaos, turning the game around with a stunning strike from Semenyo, who beat Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong before rifling the ball past Robert Sánchez.
With defeat looming, Chelsea fought back and salvaged a point in added time. Reece James, returning to the lineup after injury, curled in a superb free-kick to break Bournemouth hearts and ensure the spoils were shared.
Impact on the Table
The result leaves Chelsea in a precarious position as their top-four aspirations take another hit. Fifth-placed Newcastle United could move further ahead with a win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. For Bournemouth, a point keeps them seventh, with Andoni Iraola’s men firmly in the hunt for European qualification.
While the draw offers some solace for Chelsea fans, their failure to convert chances remains a glaring issue in a season teetering on the brink.