Image source: Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
Dutch forward Justin Kluivert etched his name in Premier League history on Saturday, becoming the first player to score a hat-trick of penalties in a single match.
His milestone performance propelled Bournemouth to a thrilling 4-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium.
The match began with fireworks as Justin Kluivert calmly converted a penalty just three minutes in, giving Bournemouth an early advantage. However, Wolves’ Norwegian striker Jorgen Strand Larsen quickly responded with a header to level the score only two minutes later.
Bournemouth’s momentum was restored in the eighth minute when left-back Milos Kerkez unleashed a stunning strike from a tight angle, finding the top corner to put his side back in front. Wolves’ woes deepened when their goalkeeper, Jose Sa, fouled Evanilson in the box, handing Kluivert the chance to double his tally from the penalty spot—a chance he seized with clinical precision.
Wolves refused to back down, and Strand Larsen’s second goal in the 69th minute narrowed the deficit to 3-2. The home side appeared rejuvenated, pressing for an equalizer. However, their hopes were dashed when Sa committed another costly foul, this time on Dominic Solanke, resulting in a third penalty for Bournemouth. Justin Kluivert stepped up once more, dispatching the spot-kick to complete his historic hat-trick.
The victory lifts Bournemouth to 11th place in the Premier League table with 18 points from 13 matches, offering a welcome boost to their campaign. Meanwhile, Wolves find themselves mired in the relegation zone, sitting 18th with just nine points.
Justin Kluivert’s record-breaking performance not only secured a vital win for Bournemouth but also highlighted his composure and efficiency under pressure, solidifying his status as a key player for the Cherries this season.
