Newcastle vs Bournemouth Preview
- Newcastle to win
- Isak to score
Newcastle United host Bournemouth at St. James’ Park in a highly anticipated clash between two of the Premier League’s most in-form teams.
Eddie Howe’s high-flying Magpies aim to set a new club record for consecutive wins, while Andoni Iraola’s resilient Bournemouth side look to extend their impressive unbeaten run.
Newcastle United: Record-Breaking Form
Newcastle’s dominant 3-0 win over Wolves in midweek marked their sixth successive Premier League victory and ninth consecutive win in all competitions, equalling a club-record streak.
Eddie Howe’s men have climbed into the top four, showcasing their status as genuine contenders for Champions League football next season.
Their recent home form has been nothing short of scintillating, with three successive Premier League wins at St. James’ Park by a margin of three or more goals, all without conceding.
However, the Magpies are yet to keep a clean sheet against Bournemouth in six Premier League meetings at home, a trend they’ll be eager to break as they chase history.
Key Player to Watch
Alexander Isak: The Swedish striker is in red-hot form, scoring in eight consecutive Premier League games. With Jamie Vardy’s record of 11 games in sight, Isak will be key to unlocking Bournemouth’s defence.
Bournemouth: Resilient and Dangerous
Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth side have quietly built an impressive 10-game unbeaten streak in all competitions (W6, D4). Their 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge midweek, in which they conceded a stoppage-time equaliser, underscores their fighting spirit and attacking prowess.
Bournemouth’s record-breaking nine-game unbeaten run in the Premier League (W5, D4) is built on consistent scoring, with the Cherries netting 2+ goals in each of their last six away games. However, defensive frailties remain a concern, as they’ve conceded at least twice in four of those outings.
Key Player to Watch
Antoine Semenyo: The forward continues to deliver on the road, with all four of his away goals this season coming after the break.
Head-to-Head Record
- Newcastle are winless in their last five league meetings with Bournemouth (D4, L1).
- Bournemouth have never kept a clean sheet at St. James’ Park in six Premier League games.
- The last encounter ended in a 1-1 draw at the Vitality Stadium earlier this season.
Tactical Insights and Key Battles
Newcastle’s Offence vs Bournemouth’s Defence
Newcastle’s front three, led by the prolific Alexander Isak, will look to exploit Bournemouth’s defensive vulnerabilities. The Magpies’ full-backs, particularly Kieran Trippier, will aim to overload the flanks and deliver dangerous crosses into the box.
Bournemouth’s Counterattacks
Bournemouth’s pace and creativity in transitions, spearheaded by Kluivert and Semenyo, could trouble Newcastle, particularly if the hosts overcommit in attack. Their ability to score late in games could also be a factor.
Midfield Battle
Newcastle’s trio of Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton and Longstaff will aim to dominate possession and stifle Bournemouth’s attempts to build through the middle. Ryan Christie will also have to step up for the visitors to provide defensive cover and a creative outlet.
Prediction: Newcastle to Edge It
While Bournemouth’s unbeaten run is commendable, Newcastle’s imperious home form and their desire to set a club record should give them the edge. Expect a competitive match with plenty of attacking moments, but the Magpies’ firepower is likely to be decisive.
Predicted Score: Newcastle 3-1 Bournemouth
Final Thoughts
This fixture promises entertainment as two in-form teams clash at St. James’ Park. Newcastle will be eager to maintain their momentum and set a new record, while Bournemouth’s free-scoring attack could make it an open and exciting contest.
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Newcastle v Bournemouth, 2024/25 | Premier League