Bournemouth waited a long time for a night like this, and they did not waste it. On Thursday, October 15, the Cherries played their first-ever home match in European competition at the Vitality Stadium and beat Sturm Graz 3-0 to make it two wins from two in the Europa League. Evanilson headed the opener, substitute Rayan profited from a goalkeeping error, and Álvaro Rodríguez finished it from the penalty spot.
A Record Crowd and a Stunner Before Half-Time
More than 12,000 fans packed the stadium, a record since it became all-seater, and the atmosphere was special. Bournemouth dominated the first half without breaking through until the 43rd minute, when Evanilson rose to head home a superb goal that felt made for the club’s history books. It was the perfect way to go in at the break.
Rayan Makes an Instant Impact
Marco Rose introduced Rayan in the 70th minute, and the Brazilian needed just six minutes. Sturm goalkeeper Khudyakov fumbled a corner and dropped the ball at Rayan’s feet, and he swivelled and fired it low into the net for 2-0. It was Rayan’s second goal in as many Europa League appearances.
Rodríguez Seals It From the Spot
In stoppage time, Bournemouth were awarded a penalty. Rodríguez sent the spot-kick down the middle to make it 3-0 and cap a memorable night. Justin Kluivert had earlier stung Khudyakov’s palms as the Cherries pushed for more.
The Numbers and the History
The stats tell the story. Bournemouth took 24 shots against Sturm’s six, with an expected goals total of 2.68 to 0.36. The win also makes Bournemouth the first English club since Bolton in 2005 to win their first two European matches. They now sit on six points, in fifth place, while Sturm Graz are 27th with just one. It also gives them a lift after a 5-1 defeat at Chelsea in the Premier League last weekend.
Bournemouth vs Sturm Graz: Key Facts
- Result: Bournemouth 3-0 Sturm Graz, October 15, 2026
- Venue: Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth
- Goals: Evanilson (43′), Rayan (76′), Rodríguez (penalty, stoppage time)
- Record: first-ever home European match, record crowd since all-seater
- Standings: six points from two games
What Happens Next?
Rose called it a privilege to lead Bournemouth in their first home European tie, and said the focus now shifts quickly to Sunday’s Premier League game against Sunderland, who also won in Europe on Thursday. Then comes a huge European night, with AC Milan visiting the Vitality Stadium next Thursday.
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