AFC Bournemouth secure historic place in Europe for first time
Cherries draw against Manchester City confirms European competition qualification
Last updated 20th May 2026
AFC Bournemouth made history by securing their first-ever place in European competition following a 1-1 draw against Manchester City.
The result maintains the Cherries' hopes for a spot in the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League as they head into the decisive final day of the season.
Junior Kroupi opened the scoring with a superbly executed strike in the first half, giving Bournemouth the lead and exciting the home crowd.
Kroupi's goal takes his tally to 13 for the season, making him the highest-scoring teenager in a debut Premier League season, surpassing legendary players Robbie Fowler and Robbie Keane.
Though Erling Haaland managed to equalise for Manchester City with an injury-time goal, it couldn’t overshadow Bournemouth's remarkable achievement under head coach Andoni Iraola, who will depart the club in the summer after three successful seasons.
Under Iraola's leadership, Bournemouth have extended their unbeaten streak to 17 matches, a feat last achieved in the 1981/82 Division Four season.
On the pitch, Đorđe Petrović was pivotal in goal for Bournemouth, making key saves including efforts from City's Jérémy Doku and Nico O’Reilly.
Gianluigi Donnarumma showcased his skills as well, with a smart save against Evanilson to keep the scores level.
Haaland's late goal salvaged a point for City, but crucially, it secured the Premier League title for Arsenal, adding another layer of significance to an already historic day for Bournemouth.
The Cherries’ historic achievement was a fitting way to mark the final home game for Iraola, who was given a rousing send-off at full-time ahead of being replaced by Marco Rose in the summer.
“What a night it has been,” said Iraola, whose team visit Nottingham Forest at the weekend. “Probably the only thing you would change is the result because I think we should have won the game 2-0 or 3-0, probably.
“But it doesn’t change so much our position in terms of European qualification: we have Europa League already guaranteed and even a small chance to fight for the Champions League until the end.
“I think we played so well. It’s a game where there is a lot to play for and you have some nerves but I was enjoying the game.
“I was watching the supporters bouncing, an incredible atmosphere. The European qualification is incredible but the moments that we will remember from this night are even more important.”