Bournemouth vs Liverpool: Adli’s stoppage-time winner stuns Liverpool
Introduction — Why Bournemouth vs Liverpool mattered
The Premier League meeting between Bournemouth and Liverpool on 24 January 2026 carried significance beyond three points. With Liverpool defending a title campaign that has already faltered, every slip risks European qualification and momentum. For Bournemouth, a win at the Vitality Stadium offered breathing room in mid-table and a psychological lift against one of the division’s big names. The match delivered a dramatic finale that reshaped immediate prospects for both clubs.
Match details and key events
At the Vitality Stadium, AFC Bournemouth defeated Liverpool 3-2 in a five-goal thriller. Bournemouth’s goals came from Evanilson (26′), Álex Jiménez (33′) and Amine Adli, who scrambled home the winner in the fifth minute of stoppage time (90’+5′). Liverpool managed two replies but were ultimately undone by the late intervention from Adli.
The game featured decisive moments of vision and pace. James Hill produced a defence-splitting pass that put right winger Álex Jiménez in behind; he was played onside by Virgil van Dijk and finished first-time through the legs of Alisson to level the contest in the first half. Managerial and selection notes included Cody Gakpo replacing Hugo Ekitike as Liverpool’s only change following Wednesday’s 3-0 Champions League win in Marseille, while Bournemouth captain Adam Smith returned to the side in place of the injured Marcus Tavernier.
Post-match, Liverpool boss Arne Slot said his side had “ran out of energy”, accepting responsibility for more dropped points. The result ended Liverpool’s 13-game unbeaten run and was highlighted by Opta and match statistics: it was only Bournemouth’s second Premier League goal from a corner that season, and Bournemouth remain one of the sides conceding comparatively often from corners (nine conceded). Liverpool conceded a 90th-minute winner for the third time in this Premier League season — a club record for such late defeats.
Conclusion — Implications and what to expect next
The victory lifts Bournemouth to 13th, ten points clear of the relegation zone and provides a timely confidence boost. For Liverpool the defeat is a setback: they remain fourth but are 14 points adrift of leaders Arsenal and face the prospect of slipping out of the Champions League places depending on results when Manchester United and Chelsea play. The match underlined vulnerability in late-game situations for Liverpool and offered Bournemouth a statement result as the season progresses.
