The first goal in AFC Bournemouth’s European history echoed across the Bay of Biscay, with the second ringing out through San Sebastián shortly after. A longstanding tradition at Real Sociedad’s former Atotxa ground, which was revived at the Anoeta Stadium in 2009, requires that a single firework be launched whenever the visiting team scores, while two are set off for home side goals—a signal visible to those out at sea.
At 21:41 on a Thursday night in September 2026, Justin Kluivert broke the deadlock for the visitors. The moment was so significant that Real Sociedad’s Juan Iturralde stepped out into the street to inform the crowd of the historic event. Back in Dorset, supporters high up in the Anoeta stands celebrated a milestone they had awaited their entire lives, announcing Bournemouth’s arrival on the continental stage with a victory in the city where manager Andoni Iraola first began his managerial journey.
Iraola beating his old club is the perfect backdrop. Historic night, but did anyone else notice the crowd’s energy?
Kluivert finally delivering when it mattered most. The European nights are starting to feel like home now.
Wait, the referee came out of his way to announce it? That’s incredibly touching. You don’t see that often.
I never thought I’d see Bournemouth celebrate in San Sebastián. This is absolutely massive for the club’s identity.