Kostoulas’ sensational acrobatics rescue crucial point for Brighton in dramatic finish

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by RTE, click this post to read the original article.

In a dramatic Premier League match, you saw Brighton rescue a point against Bournemouth with a spectacular goal from 18-year-old substitute Charalampos Kostoulas. Entering the game late, the young Greek international scored an incredible bicycle kick in stoppage time, leveling the score 1-1 after Jan Paul van Hecke’s header set him up inside the box.

Bournemouth had taken the lead in the first half through a controversial penalty. Amine Adli went down in the area after contact with Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, prompting the referee to overturn his initial decision of a dive after a VAR review. Marcus Tavernier converted the spot-kick confidently, much to the frustration of the home fans, who later chanted angrily at the referee.

You witnessed Brighton push back in the second half, creating multiple chances but failing to convert. Kaoru Mitoma, playing his 100th Premier League game, and other Seagulls attackers couldn’t break through until the dying moments of the match. Substitutes Yankuba Minteh and Carlos Baleba helped increase the pressure, with Minteh forcing a strong save from Bournemouth’s keeper late on.

Just when it seemed Bournemouth would claim all three points, Brighton capitalized on extra time. A well-delivered cross led to a Van Hecke assist, and Kostoulas produced a moment of brilliance to tie the game. The result keeps Bournemouth three points behind Brighton in the table, as both teams continue their mid-table battle.