Liverpool’s pursuit of the Premier League title takes them to the Vitality Stadium on Saturday afternoon, where they will face a high-flying Bournemouth side in what promises to be an intriguing encounter.
Arne Slot’s men will look to bounce back from their midweek European disappointment, while Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth team is on a remarkable unbeaten run, making this clash one of the most exciting of the weekend.
Bournemouth vs Liverpool – Match Preview
Bournemouth have been one of the surprise packages in the Premier League this season, as Andoni Iraola’s side continues to defy expectations. Despite a series of injuries to key players, the Cherries have shown their strength and resilience.
They come into this match on the back of a stunning 5-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, where Dango Ouattara was in sensational form, scoring a hat-trick. This victory, combined with a previous 4-1 win over Newcastle United, shows just how dangerous Bournemouth can be, especially on home turf.
Currently sitting in mid-table, Bournemouth are unbeaten in their last 12 matches across all competitions and have gathered 25 points since the end of November, the most in the Premier League during that time. Their remarkable form has seen them move up the league standings, and they will be eager to keep the momentum going against a formidable Liverpool side.
For Liverpool, their journey to the South Coast comes after a hard-fought 3-2 loss to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League. Despite the defeat, Slot’s side had already secured a place in the knockout rounds, with the group top spot confirmed thanks to Barcelona’s failure to beat Atalanta BC. With their continental duties now on hold until the new year, Liverpool’s full focus will be on continuing their charge for the Premier League title.
Sitting six points clear of Arsenal at the top of the league, with a game in hand, Liverpool’s title credentials remain strong. The Reds are currently the only team in the Premier League yet to lose away from home this season, a run they will look to extend against a Bournemouth team that has already caused upsets this season, defeating both Arsenal and Manchester City at home.
Team News: Injury Woes for Both Sides
Liverpool will be without key players for this clash. Diogo Jota will miss the match due to a muscle injury, while Curtis Jones is also a doubt with a knock. However, Joe Gomez has returned to full training and could make his first appearance of 2025.
Mohamed Salah, who has been in excellent form this season, will lead the attack, aiming to add to his growing Premier League goal tally. Salah has a fantastic record against Bournemouth, scoring in each of his first six appearances against them, though he has netted just once in his last five encounters with the Cherries.
On the other hand, Bournemouth have a long list of absentees, including their two main strikers, Evanilson (foot) and Enes Unal (knee), both of whom are out for the long term. Marcos Senesi, James Hill, and Julian Araujo are also sidelined with thigh injuries, while new signing Julio Soler is unavailable for this match. However, the Cherries will be bolstered by the return of Tyler Adams, who has been instrumental in their recent success, helping to dominate midfield and contribute with assists.
Key Stats
- Liverpool have only lost one of their last 30 matches in all competitions.
- Over 2.5 goals have been scored in five of Bournemouth’s last six matches.
- Three of Liverpool’s last five fixtures have witnessed at least three goals.
