Declan Rice (foto: Getty Images)
Arsenal opened 2026 with an important away win at Bournemouth, surviving a late scare inspired by teenage sensation Eli Kroupi after a Declan Rice brace.
Arsenal carried their strong form into 2026 with a hard-fought 3–2 away win over Bournemouth, but not without a late scare that briefly threatened to derail their night.
The hosts, still searching for consistency after a promising start to the season, struck first following an early mistake. A misplaced pass from Gabriel was intercepted by Evanilson, who finished clinically to give Bournemouth a surprise lead.
Gabriel responds, Rice takes control
Arsenal’s response was swift. Just minutes later, Gabriel made amends by scoring the equaliser, restoring calm before half-time at 1–1.
The visitors emerged with greater authority after the break, and Declan Rice took centre stage. The midfielder struck twice with near-identical, precise finishes — first to turn the match around, then to seemingly put it beyond doubt at 3–1 in the 71st minute.
Kroupi ignites late drama
Bournemouth, coached by Andoni Iraola, refused to fade quietly. In the 76th minute, 19-year-old French forward Eli Kroupi showcased why he is rapidly gaining attention across England. Finishing a well-worked team move with composure from the edge of the box, he reduced the deficit to 3–2 — his sixth Premier League goal of the season.
Signed from Lorient for €13 million, Kroupi is already looking like one of Bournemouth’s smartest investments, and a player they will build around in the coming years.
Arsenal hold firm
Buoyed by the goal, Bournemouth pushed hard during six minutes of added time, but Arsenal managed the closing stages with maturity, seeing out the pressure to secure another valuable three points.
The win keeps Arsenal firmly in rhythm at the start of the new year, reinforcing the sense that 2026 could yet be the season where their consistency finally pays off — even as the Premier League continues to introduce new young stars ready to test them.