Photo via Sky Sports

Bournemouth enjoy winning start to Europa League campaign at Sociedad

Bournemouth marked their debut in European competition with a 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad at the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastian. Justin Kluivert slotted in Adrien Truffert's low cross in the 11th minute following a prolonged video review, before Rayan nodded in Alex Scott's lofted delivery in the 20th minute to double the lead.

Evanilson struck the woodwork shortly after, while Sergio Gomez halved the deficit for the Spanish hosts in the 57th minute with an effort from wide. Goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic protected the advantage late on, producing two crucial stops to thwart Orri Oskarsson in the 85th and 91st minutes.

The triumph rewards an extraordinary rise for the club, who languished in the fourth tier on minus 17 points under dire financial circumstances 18 years ago. After Eddie Howe guided Bournemouth to safety and three promotions, an eventual sixth-place finish under Andoni Iraola secured their Europa League berth.

Current manager Marco Rose successfully guided his side to victory in their opener after the Cherries unexpectedly entered the tournament as favourites.