Kluivert and Rayan rock Real Sociedad as Bournemouth win on European bow
Bournemouth marked their European debut with a memorable 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in San Sebastián, announcing themselves on the continental stage with an impressive first-half performance. Justin Kluivert and Rayan scored within 20 minutes, but Sergio Gómez’s second-half goal sparked a determined Sociedad fightback and left Bournemouth defending their lead under intense pressure.
The match was Bournemouth’s first European fixture in their 127-year history, with around 2,000 travelling supporters celebrating the landmark occasion. Real Sociedad threatened repeatedly after the break, but goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic made two outstanding late saves from Orri Óskarsson to secure victory, despite Bournemouth’s recent struggles in holding leads.
- Bournemouth won their first European match 2-1.
- Kluivert and Rayan struck during a superb first half.
- Petrovic’s late saves secured victory in San Sebastián.