Bournemouth vs West Brom FA Cup Preview

• Bournemouth to qualify
• Over 2.5 goals

The Vitality Stadium sets the stage for a thrilling FA Cup third-round clash as Premier League high-flyers AFC Bournemouth take on Championship side West Bromwich Albion.

Both teams are keen to make a mark in this prestigious competition, with Bournemouth seeking to continue their impressive form and West Brom eyeing an upset.

AFC Bournemouth: Riding High in the Premier League

Bournemouth are enjoying a stellar season, sitting seventh in the Premier League and just three points off the top four. Under the guidance of manager Andoni Iraola, the Cherries have been a tough side to beat, going unbeaten in their last eight games across all competitions (W5, D3).

Their recent 1-0 win over Everton at the Vitality Stadium, courtesy of David Brooks’ decisive strike, extended their excellent home form. Bournemouth have beaten giants like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham at home this season, conceding just seven goals at the Vitality.

Although the Cherries have never advanced past the quarter-finals in the FA Cup, their form and confidence make them favourites in this encounter.

Key Player to Watch

• David Brooks: The Welsh international has been influential in recent weeks, and his ability to create and convert chances will be crucial for the Cherries.

West Bromwich Albion: Seeking an Upset

West Brom enter this clash with rich FA Cup history, having won the trophy five times, though their last triumph came in 1968. The Baggies are 11th in the Championship and are coming off a 1-1 draw with Swansea City.

While Albion’s form has been inconsistent, they have shown resilience against higher-tier opponents in previous FA Cup campaigns. Their last victory over Premier League opposition in the competition came in January 2020, when they edged out West Ham 1-0.

Manager Carlos Corberán will rely on key players like Karlan Grant, who has contributed to four goals in his last five FA Cup starts.

Key Player to Watch

• Karlan Grant: The forward’s knack for goal contributions in cup competitions could provide the spark Albion need to challenge the Cherries.

Head-to-Head Record

• The two teams have faced off just once in the FA Cup, with Bournemouth securing a 1-0 victory in January 1999.
• In their last five meetings at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth hold the edge with two wins, two draws, and one defeat.

Tactical Insights and Key Battles

Bournemouth’s Attack vs Albion’s Defence

Bournemouth’s dynamic attack, led by Solanke and Brooks, will look to exploit Albion’s backline, which has struggled with consistency this season. West Brom will need Bartley and O’Shea to step up and neutralise the threat from Bournemouth’s wide players.

Midfield Duel

Billing and Lerma will aim to control the tempo for Bournemouth, while Livermore and Molumby must disrupt their rhythm to provide a platform for Albion’s counterattacks.

Set Pieces

Both sides have players capable of making an impact from set-pieces. Bournemouth’s Senesi and Albion’s Grant will be key aerial threats.

Prediction

Bournemouth’s exceptional home form and Premier League quality make them favourites, but West Brom’s FA Cup history and ability to punch above their weight could make this a tighter contest than expected.

Predicted Score: Bournemouth 2-1 West Bromwich Albion

Final Thoughts

This FA Cup tie offers a classic battle between an in-form Premier League side and a determined Championship outfit. With Bournemouth’s strong home record and Albion’s history in the competition, fans can expect an entertaining encounter.