Kepa Arrizabalaga faced heavy criticism after conceding a costly late penalty that denied Bournemouth a crucial win against Tottenham in the Premier League. The Cherries had been in control, leading 2-0 in north London, only to see their advantage slip away due to errors, including Kepa’s reckless challenge on Son Heung-min.
Bournemouth appeared set for a vital victory after goals from Marcus Tavernier and Evanilson put them in command. However, Spurs were handed a lifeline when Pape Matar Sarr’s wayward cross completely deceived Kepa, looping over him and into the net to cut the deficit.
The drama escalated in the final moments when Son was played through on goal. Kepa rushed off his line but mistimed his approach, bringing down the Tottenham captain and conceding a penalty. Son then calmly converted, waiting for Kepa to dive before rolling the ball straight down the middle.
Speaking after the match, Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola admitted Kepa was frustrated with his decision-making. He acknowledged that Son was smart in drawing contact but felt his goalkeeper had given the referee an easy decision. Despite their strong pressing and control, Iraola lamented Bournemouth’s inability to close out the match.
Former Spurs defender Stephen Kelly didn’t hold back in his criticism, calling Kepa’s mistake “absolutely ludicrous” and a moment of “madness.” He noted that the goalkeeper’s regret was immediate, but the damage had already been done. Bournemouth, who had been the better side for much of the game, were left to rue missed opportunities.
Bournemouth now sit eighth in the table, five points off the top four. They will look to bounce back when they host Brentford on Saturday, hoping to shake off the disappointment of letting victory slip away against Spurs.
While Kepa’s blunder proved costly, his overall season on loan at Bournemouth has been solid. The Chelsea loanee has conceded just 29 goals in 24 games, keeping six clean sheets and playing a key role in Bournemouth’s push for European qualification.