Bournemouth vs Wolves FA Cup Report
Scorers: Evanilson 30’; Cunha 60’
Red card: Cunha 120’
Penalties scored: Kluivert, Ouattara, Tavernier, Cook, Sinisterra; Larsen, Andre, Ait Nouri, Toti
Penalties missed: Huijsen; Doherty, Traore
A dramatic FA Cup fifth-round encounter at the Vitality Stadium saw Bournemouth defeat Wolves on penalties after a 1-1 draw in extra time, with Matheus Cunha receiving a late red card in what could be a massive blow for Wolves’ relegation battle.
Evanilson Strikes First as VAR Causes Chaos
Wolves started the game in shaky fashion, struggling to cope with Bournemouth’s early intensity.
The hosts took the lead in the 30th minute when a long pass found Antoine Semenyo, whose effort was saved by Sam Johnstone but parried straight into the path of Evanilson, who tapped home into an empty net.
Bournemouth thought they had doubled their lead just before halftime when Milos Kerkez bundled home from a corner, but after a lengthy and controversial VAR check, the goal was ruled out for offside.
The malfunctioning semi-automated offside technology caused an extended delay, frustrating players and fans alike. Despite their dominance, the Cherries failed to capitalize on their momentum before the break.
Cunha’s Wonder Goal Revives Wolves
Wolves had been second-best for much of the match, but Matheus Cunha single-handedly pulled his team level on the hour mark.
The Brazilian unleashed a thunderous 35-yard strike into the top corner, leaving Kepa Arrizabalaga with no chance.
The equalizer sparked a brief resurgence for Wolves, but Bournemouth continued to dominate proceedings, forcing Toti Gomes into an outstanding goal-line clearance and seeing Dean Huijsen head over from a corner. However, neither side could find a winner in normal time, sending the tie into extra time.
Extra Time Drama and Cunha’s Costly Dismissal
As the game entered extra time, Wolves’ game plan became clear – they sat deep and played for penalties, leaving Cunha as the lone outlet up front. Bournemouth piled on the pressure, but Johnstone produced brilliant saves to deny Luis Sinisterra and Lewis Cook.
With just one minute left on the clock, Cunha’s night took a disastrous turn. The forward reacted angrily to a coming together with Kerkez, swinging his arm at him and then appearing to lean in with his head.
Referee Sam Barrott showed him a straight red card, leaving Wolves down to 10 men for the final moments. His suspension could be a significant setback in Wolves’ fight for survival in the league.
Penalty Shootout Heartbreak for Wolves
Despite their dogged defensive effort, Wolves ultimately fell short in the penalty shootout. They had the chance to win it when Matt Doherty stepped up at 4-4, but the full-back blazed his effort over the bar.
Moments later, Boubacar Traore struck the crossbar, allowing Sinisterra to step up and bury the winning penalty as Bournemouth progressed 5-4 on spot-kicks.
What’s Next?
- Bournemouth: Andoni Iraola’s side advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals, adding to their impressive campaign as they continue to fight for European qualification.
- Wolves: A missed opportunity for silverware and an injury-time red card for Cunha could severely impact their Premier League survival hopes.
Man of the Match: Luis Sinisterra (Bournemouth) – Provided energy off the bench and scored the winning penalty to seal his team’s progression
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Results – Emirates FA Cup – Competitions | The Football Association