Premier League action continues as Bournemouth hosts West Ham at the Vitality Stadium on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 2:00 AM (GMT). Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, will aim to leverage their home advantage and climb the Premier League standings. Meanwhile, West Ham, managed by David Moyes, will look to secure valuable points to maintain their competitive position in the league.
AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham Form Guide
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth has displayed a mix of attacking intent and resilience this season. With key players like Antoine Semenyo and Dominic Solanke contributing crucial goals and assists, the Cherries will rely on their ability to create scoring chances and come back from challenging positions. However, weaknesses in aerial duels and defending against skillful players could expose vulnerabilities against West Ham’s physical style.
West Ham United
West Ham has consistently showcased strengths in set-pieces and aerial duels, with Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen leading the charge. Their attacking intent from direct free kicks and ability to protect a lead are notable attributes. However, their struggles against counter-attacks and defending long shots may present opportunities for Bournemouth to capitalize.
AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United Key Battles
Evanilson vs Tomas Soucek
Evanilson has been a vital goal scorer for Bournemouth, with 4 goals this season, and his battle with Tomas Soucek, who also has 4 goals for West Ham, will be key. Both players’ performances could heavily influence the outcome.
Antoine Semenyo vs Jarrod Bowen
Semenyo’s 5 goal contributions (goals + assists) for Bournemouth will match up against Bowen’s impressive 8 contributions for West Ham. Their individual brilliance and ability to create chances could be game-changing for their respective teams.
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AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United Tactical Outlook
Bournemouth will likely focus on their strengths, attempting crosses and attacking down the left flank. Their aggressive playstyle and ability to control the game in the opposition’s half make them a formidable side at home.
West Ham, known for their consistency in team selection and attacking from the right, will rely on set-pieces and long balls to create opportunities. David Moyes may set his team up to exploit Bournemouth’s weaknesses, particularly in aerial duels and defending through-ball attacks.
AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United Head-to-Head Encounters
In their previous meetings, Bournemouth has won 5 times, West Ham has 7 wins, and 5 matches have ended in draws. The odds slightly favor Bournemouth at 1.70 to win, while a draw stands at 4.10, and a West Ham win is at 4.75. Bournemouth’s home advantage gives them a slight edge in this encounter.
Injury News and Suspensions
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth faces a series of injury setbacks, with Alex Scott and Luis Sinisterra sidelined until late December 2024, and Julian Araujo out until late February 2025 due to a hamstring issue. Marcos Senesi’s muscle injury keeps him out until mid-March 2025, while Marcus Tavernier’s recovery from a hamstring injury is expected by mid-January. These absences strain Andoni Iraola’s team depth in a critical phase.
West Ham United
West Ham’s campaign faces challenges as Emerson serves a suspension, and Michail Antonio is ruled out with a broken leg, keeping him sidelined until early May 2025. David Moyes will need to adapt his strategy to compensate for the loss of the experienced forward during the remainder of the season.
AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United Possible Playing Squad
AFC Bournemouth
Kepa (GK), Kerkez, Huijsen, Zabarnyi, Smith, Christie, Cook, Ouattara, Tavernier, Semenyo, Evanilson.
West Ham United
Fabianski (GK), Cresswell, Kilman, Mavropanos, Wan-Bissaka, Soucek, Álvarez, Summerville, Paquetá, Kudus, Bowen.
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United | Tuesday, December 17, 2024 | 2:00 AM (GMT) | Premier League | Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, England |
Match Prediction
Bournemouth’s attacking intent and home advantage could prove decisive against a West Ham side struggling with defensive frailties. Expect a competitive encounter with moments of individual brilliance from both teams.
Score Prediction
Bournemouth is predicted to edge past West Ham with a 2-1 victory in a closely contested match. Evanilson and Antoine Semenyo are expected to deliver for the home side, showcasing their finishing prowess to put Bournemouth ahead. Despite West Ham’s efforts, Jarrod Bowen is likely to be their standout performer, finding the net to keep the contest alive.