Late Drama at Amex: Kostoulas' Bicycle Kick Snatches Draw for Brighton

Brighton and Hove Albion fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, with Charalampos Kostoulas scoring a breathtaking late equalizer.

By Chris Posiano

January 20, 2026 at 3:58 AM

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Brighton and Hove Albion salvaged a point against Bournemouth in a thrilling Premier League encounter at the Amex Stadium, thanks to an astonishing overhead kick by Charalampos Kostoulas in the dying seconds of the match.

The 18-year-old forward, who joined Brighton from Olympiacos for a reported £30 million last year, showed remarkable composure to chest the ball down and volley it into the top corner in the first minute of stoppage time. His goal cancelled out Marcus Tavernier's controversial first-half penalty, which had given Bournemouth the lead.

Bournemouth had appeared the stronger side in the first half, but their goal was marred by a contentious VAR decision. Referee Paul Tierney initially booked Amine Adli for simulation after he went down in the penalty area under a challenge from Bart Verbruggen. However, following a VAR review, the decision was overturned and Adli's penalty was awarded.

Tavernier calmly converted the spot-kick, but Bournemouth struggled to maintain their lead. Brighton dominated the second half and were rewarded when Kostoulas struck his sensational equalizer.

Both managers had differing opinions on the penalty decision. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler disagreed with the call, stating that "a touch and a contact is not enough." In contrast, Bournemouth counterpart Andoni Iraola expected the decision after seeing the replay. Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, speaking on Monday Night Football, declared it a penalty but suggested it could have been avoided.

The draw leaves both teams in the lower half of the Premier League table, with Brighton in 12th and Bournemouth in 15th. However, Brighton's resurgence in the second half and the quality of Kostoulas' equalizer will provide a confidence boost for the Seagulls.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the late drama ensuring both sets of fans had plenty to cheer about. The stunning overhead kick by Kostoulas was the highlight of the match and a moment that Brighton fans will remember for a long time.