Bournemouth AFC Dominate FC St. Pauli in Pre-Season Friendly

Bournemouth AFC made a powerful statement in their pre-season preparations, crushing German second-division side FC St. Pauli 4-1 in an international club friendly on July 24, 2026. The Cherries, preparing for the upcoming Premier League campaign, showcased sharp attacking football at their Vitality Stadium training base, leaving no doubt about their readiness for the new season.

First-Half Flourish

Bournemouth took control from the opening whistle. The home side’s high press forced St. Pauli into early errors, and the breakthrough came in the 12th minute when a slick passing move ended with a clinical finish from new signing Dango Ouattara, who latched onto a through ball from Philip Billing. Twelve minutes later, Dominic Solanke doubled the lead with a powerful header from a corner, outjumping the St. Pauli defence to make it 2-0.

FC St. Pauli, known for their resilient spirit, pulled one back just before the half-hour mark. A swift counter-attack caught Bournemouth off guard, and striker Johannes Eggestein slotted home from close range after a defensive mix‑up. But the Cherries restored their two‑goal advantage before halftime: a long‑range strike from Ryan Christie curled into the top corner, leaving St. Pauli goalkeeper Vasilj Nikola with no chance.

Second-Half Control

The second half saw Bournemouth manage the game with composure. Head coach Andoni Iraola made several substitutions, giving minutes to fringe players. The final goal arrived in the 68th minute when substitute Antoine Semenyo raced onto a through ball and calmly lifted it over the onrushing goalkeeper to make it 4-1. St. Pauli rarely threatened thereafter, as Bournemouth’s defence, marshalled by Illia Zabarnyi, stood firm.

Key Takeaways

• Sharp Attack: Four different scorers highlighted Bournemouth’s multi‑faceted threat.
• Midfield Dominance: Billing and Christie controlled the tempo, winning most second balls.
• Defensive Work Needed: The one conceded goal came from a momentary lapse, something Iraola will address before the season begins.

For FC St. Pauli, the friendly was a useful test against high‑level opposition. They showed flashes of their trademark passion but were ultimately outclassed by a Premier League‑calibre side. The match, played behind closed doors as part of a training camp, provided valuable intensity for both squads.

Bournemouth now turn their attention to their remaining pre‑season fixtures before the Premier League opener, while St. Pauli continue their preparation for the 2. Bundesliga season, where they aim to challenge for promotion.