Bournemouth host Sunderland this Saturday in the Premier League, with the Cherries aiming to extend their impressive run of form, while Sunderland travel south searching for a much-needed turnaround.
Bournemouth’s last league defeat came on January 3, in a narrow 3-2 loss to leaders Arsenal – a result that underlined how competitive they have been in recent weeks.
Since then, the Cherries have been flying and will be hoping to continue their great run of form, coming into this one with three wins out of their last five.
Sunderland, by contrast, have stalled after a fantastic start to life back in the Premier League.
The Black Cats have managed just one win in their last five outings, and momentum appears to have slipped at a crucial stage of the season.
There was, however, a boost for Sunderland last weekend as Granit Xhaka returned from injury, coming off the bench against Fulham.
He is expected to start here, and his presence should bring leadership and control to the midfield.
The concern for Sunderland lies elsewhere. Nordi Mukiele, Jocelin Ta Bi, Nilson Angulo, and Brian Brobbey were all forced off with injuries last time out and remain doubts for this Saturday.
Bournemouth also have their own concerns. Lewis Cook – who was sent off late in the reverse fixture – is a doubt after suffering a hamstring issue during the warm-up ahead of the Cherries’ 0-0 draw at West Ham.
The previous meeting between these sides was unforgettable – particularly for Sunderland supporters.
Bournemouth took a 2-0 lead inside 15 minutes, including a remarkable long-range strike from Tyler Adams.
But that wonder strike counted for little more than a goal of the month candidate as Sunderland came back to win 3-2.
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Where can I watch Bournemouth vs Sunderland?
Bournemouth to win
Given their current form, it is difficult to look past Bournemouth.
They are playing with confidence and consistency, more than what can be said about Sunderland.
The Black Cats are struggling for rhythm, have question marks over key players, and have not travelled well all season.
Xhaka’s likely return will certainly help steady the visitors, and there is enough quality in their squad to make this competitive. However, Bournemouth’s momentum and home advantage could prove decisive.
I’ve gone head over heart here and backed Bournemouth to win this one.
Under 2.5 goals
While the reverse fixture was a five-goal thriller, this encounter should be far tighter.
Sunderland’s attacking output has been inconsistent all season. At times, strong defensive displays have masked their lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Defensively, however, they remain committed and resilient – especially with the likes of Dan Ballard and Robin Roefs back there.
Bournemouth are capable of breaking Sunderland down, but this does not project as an open, end-to-end affair. Instead, it could be a controlled and tactical contest.
Under 2.5 goals covers likely scorelines such as 1-0 or 2-0, and given Sunderland’s recent attacking struggles, I think one of those is the most likely scoreline.
Where can I watch Bournemouth vs Sunderland?
For viewers in the USA, this Premier League match will be shown live on USA Network and streamed on Peacock. Kick-off is at 7:30am ET.
Supporters in the UK can watch live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available on Discovery+. Kick-off is at 12:30pm GMT.
What is Bournemouth’s Current form?
W-W-D-W-D
What is Sundeland’s current form?
L-W-L-L-L
What is Bournemouth’s predicted team?
Petrovic, Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffet – Scott, Adams, Rayan, Adli, Kroupi – Evanilson
Injured: Kluivert, Doak, Soler
Doubt: Cook
What is Sunderland’s predicted team?
Roefs, Hume, Ballard, Alderete, Geertruida – Xhaka, Sadiki, Diarra, Le Fee, Talbi – Isidor
Injured: Traore, Cirkin, Reinildo
Doubt: Mukiele, Angulo, Ta Bi, Brobbey
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