On the 31st of August 2024, Everton will face AFC Bournemouth at Goodison Park in Liverpool. This Premier League encounter is set to be an exciting clash as both teams aim to secure vital points. Everton, with their passionate home crowd behind them, will be looking to dominate, while Bournemouth will be eager to snatch an away win with their disciplined approach.
Everton vs AFC Bournemouth Form Guide:
Everton
Everton, managed by Sean Dyche, has been showing signs of improvement, particularly at home. The Toffees have shored up their defense and are finally getting the gears turning up front. With key players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dwight McNeil leading the charge, Everton will be aiming to build on their recent positive results and continue their climb up the table.
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth, under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, has experienced a mixed start to the season. The Cherries have struggled with consistency, especially away from home, but their tactical discipline and counter-attacking prowess make them a threat. Key players such as Dominic Solanke and Philip Billing will need to be at their best to challenge Everton’s defense.
Everton vs AFC Bournemouth Key Battles:
Dominic Calvert-Lewin vs Lloyd Kelly
The duel between Everton’s main striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Bournemouth’s defensive stalwart Lloyd Kelly will be crucial. Calvert-Lewin, known for his aerial ability and physical presence, will look to dominate in the box, while Kelly will be tasked with containing his threat.
Amadou Onana vs Philip Billing
In midfield, the contest between Everton’s Amadou Onana and Bournemouth’s Philip Billing will be fascinating. Onana’s energy and ball-winning ability will be key for Everton to control the midfield, while Billing’s creative play and late runs into the box could pose a significant threat to the Toffees.
Everton vs AFC Bournemouth Tactical Outlook
Sean Dyche’s Everton is likely to set up with a compact and organized defense, looking to press high and force mistakes from Bournemouth. The Toffees will rely on quick transitions and the physical presence of Calvert-Lewin to break down Bournemouth’s defense. Everton’s wide players, such as Dwight McNeil, will also be crucial in stretching the play and delivering dangerous crosses into the box.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, may opt for a more cautious approach, focusing on defensive solidity and hitting Everton on the counter. Andoni Iraola’s side will look to exploit spaces left behind by Everton’s full-backs and use the pace of their attackers to create scoring opportunities. Set-pieces could also be a key area for Bournemouth, with players like Philip Billing posing a threat in the air.
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Head-to-Head Encounters
Historically, Everton and Bournemouth have had tightly contested matches, with both teams having their share of victories. Everton’s home advantage has often played a significant role, but Bournemouth’s resilience and ability to snatch points on the road cannot be underestimated. This matchup promises to be another close contest, with both sides eager to come out on top.
Injury News and Suspensions
Everton
Everton could be without key defender James Tarkowski, who is recovering from a knock. If he doesn’t make the squad, Jarrad Branthwaite might step in to partner Michael Keane at the back. The rest of the squad is expected to be available, with Sean Dyche likely to field a strong lineup.
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth might be missing their influential midfielder Ryan Christie due to injury. In his absence, Joe Rothwell could take up the creative responsibilities in midfield. The Cherries are otherwise expected to field their regular starting XI, with no major injury concerns.
Everton vs AFC Bournemouth Possible Playing Squad
Everton
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Dwight McNeil, Amadou Onana, Abdoulaye Doucouré, Michael Keane, Jarrad Branthwaite, James Garner, Seamus Coleman, Nathan Patterson, Jordan Pickford, Jack Harrison
AFC Bournemouth
Dominic Solanke, Philip Billing, Marcus Tavernier, Lloyd Kelly, Neto, Joe Rothwell, David Brooks, Milos Kerkez, Max Aarons, Ryan Fredericks, Chris Mepham
Match Details in a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
| Everton vs AFC Bournemouth | 31st August, Saturday | 8:00 PM (BST) | Premier League | Goodison Park, Liverpool |
Match Prediction
Given Everton’s strong home form and Bournemouth’s struggles away from home, Everton is the favorite to secure the win. However, Bournemouth’s ability to play on the counter-attack and capitalize on set-pieces makes them a dangerous opponent.
Score Prediction
A 2-1 victory for Everton seems likely, with the Toffees edging out Bournemouth in a closely-fought contest. Everton is expected to dominate possession, but Bournemouth’s resilience will keep the match competitive until the end.