Defender Dean Huijsen’s lone goal secured Bournemouth a crucial victory over Tottenham, lifting them above their opponents in the Premier League standings.
The 19-year-old was left unmarked at the back post to head in Marcus Tavernier’s inswinging corner in the 17th minute, exposing Spurs’ ongoing struggles with set-piece defending.
The goal left manager Ange Postecoglou visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Tottenham had started brightly, with Dominic Solanke playing a key role on his return to the Vitality Stadium following his £65m summer move. Despite a mixed reception from the home crowd, Solanke managed two early shots but was unable to capitalize before Bournemouth took control after Huijsen’s goal.
Tavernier and Evanilson both came close to doubling the hosts’ lead before halftime.
In the second half, Spurs pushed for an equalizer, introducing captain Son Heung-min for Pape Matar Sarr. This sparked opportunities for James Maddison, Pedro Porro, and Dejan Kulusevski.
However, defensive lapses left Tottenham vulnerable, and Evanilson had a late goal disallowed for offside.
The victory moved Bournemouth up to ninth, one spot above Spurs. However, both teams face injury concerns.
Tottenham’s Ben Davies was forced off with a suspected hamstring issue, leaving Postecoglou with just one fit center-back ahead of Sunday’s derby against Chelsea.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola also confirmed a setback, revealing that defender Marcos Senesi is sidelined long-term with a severe quad injury.
Spurs face familiar issues
Another disappointing result for Tottenham leaves them vulnerable to familiar criticisms.
While they began the match positively, it offers little solace to manager Ange Postecoglou, who witnessed a noticeable drop in his players’ morale following Huijsen’s goal.
This performance is likely to fuel ongoing perceptions about Spurs’ mentality issues. At times, the players appeared unsettled, exemplified by Destiny Udogie misplacing a crossfield pass straight out of play.
Postecoglou can cite the impact of injuries on his squad, with key players like Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario unavailable, alongside attacking absentees Richarlison, Wilson Odobert, and Mikey Moore.
However, with only one win in their last six matches—a 4-0 triumph at Manchester City—and continued struggles with set-piece defense, it’s clear there are significant issues that need addressing.
Dean dominates Dominic
Huijsen, making only his third start of the season, has quickly become a fan favorite, with chants of “Dean” echoing throughout the stadium even before his goal.
Although Solanke initially outmaneuvered the Spain Under-21 defender in their first encounter, Huijsen quickly regained control, going on to dominate the duel.
He blocked Solanke’s subsequent attempt, outpaced the fatigued England international late in the first half, and showcased his defensive prowess by clearing a dangerous cross from under the bar.
This impressive performance highlighted Bournemouth’s smart acquisition of the teenager from Juventus for a fee that could rise to just £15.3 million.
Player of the Match: Dean Huijsen.