Bournemouth vs West Ham Preview

• Draw or Bournemouth win
• Over 2.5 goals

Bournemouth and West Ham clash at the Vitality Stadium in a Premier League encounter that pits the high-flying Cherries against a Hammers side looking to stabilise their season.

With Bournemouth just three points off the top four and West Ham aiming to build on a crucial win last week, this match promises intensity and intrigue under the Monday night lights.

Bournemouth: Quietly Climbing the Ranks

Bournemouth’s impressive form has turned heads this season, with the Cherries entering this round just three points adrift of the Champions League spots.

A three-game winning streak, which included victories over heavyweights Arsenal, Manchester City, and Spurs, has highlighted their ability to compete with the Premier League elite.

A victory over West Ham would mark Bournemouth’s first run of four consecutive Premier League wins in nearly a year. Confidence will be high after their dramatic 2-1 win against Ipswich, where Dango Ouattara’s late heroics secured all three points.

While Bournemouth have failed to win any of their last six head-to-head meetings with West Ham (D3, L3), their current form suggests they are well-positioned to break that streak.

Key Player: Dango Ouattara

The winger played a pivotal role coming off the bench and winning our Best Sub award in Bournemouth’s comeback against Ipswich, contributing a goal and an assist. Notably, three of his four Premier League goals have come after the 70th minute, making him a constant late-game threat.

West Ham: Searching for Stability

Despite perceptions of a difficult season, West Ham find themselves only six points behind Bournemouth in the table. Julen Lopetegui’s side secured a vital 2-1 victory over Wolves last Monday, potentially saving his position as manager.

However, the pressure remains on the Hammers, especially given their poor recent away form in the league (W1, D2, L3).

West Ham’s last three away defeats have seen them concede at least three goals, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that Lopetegui will need to address.

On a positive note, Monday night fixtures seem to bring out the best in the Hammers, who have won nine of their last ten Monday-held Premier League games (L1).

A similar result here could alleviate the scrutiny on Lopetegui and bolster West Ham’s campaign.

Key Player: Tomáš Souček

The midfielder has a knack for second-half goals, with eight of his last ten strikes for West Ham coming after the break. His aerial ability and late-game presence could be crucial in turning the tide in the Hammers’ favour.

Tactical Battle

Bournemouth’s attacking verve has been a cornerstone of their recent success. They are likely to rely on quick transitions and wide play, with Ouattara and Ryan Christie key to unlocking West Ham’s defence.

Bournemouth’s resilience in the dying moments of games has also been a defining trait, making them dangerous until the final whistle.

West Ham, meanwhile, will aim to improve their defensive organisation and exploit set-piece opportunities, an area where Souček excels.

Lopetegui’s side will look to frustrate Bournemouth by denying them space and hitting on the counter-attack, with Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen pivotal in transition.

What’s at Stake

• Bournemouth: A win would underline their top-four credentials and extend their winning streak to four games, a remarkable feat for one of the league’s smallest clubs.
• West Ham: Victory would help the Hammers close the gap on Bournemouth and provide much-needed momentum as they seek consistency in their campaign.

Head-to-Head Insights

• Bournemouth have failed to win any of their last six Premier League meetings with West Ham (D3, L3).
• West Ham have lost three of their last four away league games, conceding at least three goals in each defeat.
• Monday night has been a happy hunting ground for West Ham, with nine wins from their last ten Monday-held Premier League fixtures (L1).

Prediction

Bournemouth’s current form and home advantage make them favourites, but West Ham’s knack for performing on Monday nights adds an unpredictable element to this clash. Expect a tightly contested game with goals on both sides, but the Cherries’ late-game edge could see them prevail.

Prediction: Bournemouth 2-1 West Ham

As the Cherries look to maintain their incredible rise and the Hammers aim to steady their ship, this Monday night fixture promises high stakes and captivating football. Will Bournemouth’s form prevail, or can West Ham upset the odds? All eyes will be on the Vitality Stadium.

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Bournemouth v West Ham, 2024/25 | Premier League