Why Evanilson’s Controversial Goal Against Arsenal Was Allowed
The reason Bournemouth striker Evanilson’s decisive goal against Arsenal was allowed has now been clarified, following the Cherries’ dramatic comeback to clinch their first-ever Premier League away win at the Emirates. Despite Arsenal’s focus on their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against PSG, manager Mikel Arteta fielded a strong lineup, which paid off early with a goal from Declan Rice.
However, Bournemouth responded in the second half through Dean Huijsen, and Evanilson later netted what proved to be the match-winner from a corner. Though replays raised questions about a possible handball—suggesting the ball might have glanced off his arm—VAR conducted an extensive review and upheld the goal.
According to the Premier League Match Centre on X (formerly Twitter), the goal stood because there was no clear evidence that Evanilson handled the ball. Multiple camera angles were reviewed, but none provided conclusive proof to overturn the on-field decision.
“The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with no conclusive evidence that Evanilson handled the ball before scoring,” the Premier League stated.
The incident comes shortly after Evanilson was controversially sent off in a draw with Manchester United. Initially shown a yellow card, it was upgraded to a red after VAR review, though footage showed he may have slipped during the challenge. Bournemouth appealed the decision, and an independent commission later ruled in his favor, overturning the red card.