AFC Bournemouth will host Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Vitality Stadium this Saturday, aiming to continue their impressive form as they chase Champions League qualification. The Cherries are currently riding high after a recent victory over Southampton, cementing their fifth position with 45 points, just one point behind the reigning champions, Manchester City. This match marks another opportunity for Bournemouth to showcase their skills, having won eight out of their last 13 games, losing only to league leaders Liverpool during this stretch.
Meanwhile, Wolverhampton finds itself fighting for survival, hovering just two points above the relegation zone. Despite not winning their last three away games this year, Wolves are coming off a spirited performance against Liverpool, where they almost managed to equalize late in the game. Vítor Pereira's squad has struggled overall, suffering five defeats in their last six league matches.
Bournemouth hopes to build on their strength, as they have previously enjoyed success against Wolves, winning their last two encounters. Historical records indicate they have never won at home against Wolverhampton in top-flight meetings, but with recent form favoring the Cherries, fans are optimistic about breaking this streak.
Team news for Bournemouth suggests the coach Andoni Iraola may keep the same lineup following their recent win, even as they deal with several injuries, including significant absences like Marcos Senesi and Enes Ünal. Alex Scott and Luis Sinisterra, who returned from injury, may come off the bench to provide valuable support. Dango Ouattara will spearhead the attack, bolstered by the recent performances from players like Justin Kluivert, who netted a hat-trick of penalties at Molineux last season.
Wolverhampton, on the other hand, is dealing with injuries of their own, with Matheus Cunha suspended and several other players like Yerson Mosquera and Saša Kalajdžić sidelined due to various medical issues. Pereira's options are limited, but he will likely rely on Matheus Cunha, who has been one of their standout players this season.
The match is set to kick off at 15:00 GMT and will not be broadcast live on UK television, but it will be available for streaming on various platforms, including Peacock for viewers in the USA. Both teams are poised for this contest, with Bournemouth aiming to secure their position near the top and Wolverhampton striving to escape relegation; the stakes are undoubtedly high for both squads.
With their successful past against Wolves and mounting pressure to perform, Bournemouth is highly favored to win this encounter. Predictions suggest Bournemouth could edge the game 2-0, attributing their current strong form as key to overcoming the challenges posed by Wolverhampton. Fan anticipation is palpable as the teams prepare to meet.