Bournemouth vs Crystal Palace: Premier League Match Preview
The Premier League action continues as Bournemouth vs Crystal Palace takes center stage on the south coast. Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth are flying high this season, while Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace are struggling to find consistency. With both teams having contrasting fortunes, this clash promises to be an intriguing battle.
Just a chill guy on his way to training 👍 pic.twitter.com/uDnJjfMJwK
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) December 24, 2024
Bournemouth Preview: Cherries Eyeing European Glory
Under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth have been a revelation this season. Known for their high-intensity and attacking football, the Cherries are sitting just outside the UEFA Champions League spots. Their recent form has been nothing short of spectacular, with 13 points collected from their last five Premier League matches.
Last weekend, Bournemouth stunned Manchester United with a commanding 3-0 victory at Old Trafford. Goals from Dean Huijsen, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo showcased their clinical edge. With home advantage and momentum on their side, Bournemouth will be confident heading into this fixture.
Bournemouth Team News
The Cherries have no major fresh injury concerns, though Andoni Iraola mentioned a few minor “niggles” following their win at Old Trafford. However, key players like Marcos Senesi, Alex Scott, and Marcus Tavernier remain sidelined.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Kepa; Aarons, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Adams, Christie; Semenyo, Kluivert, Ouattara; Evanilson
Unavailable: Senesi, Araujo, Scott, Tavernier, Sinisterra (all injured)
Questionable: Smith (injured)
Crystal Palace Preview: Eagles Struggling for Form
Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, have shown glimpses of promise but have struggled to turn performances into results. With just three wins in 17 matches, the Eagles find themselves hovering above the relegation zone.
Their last outing was a humbling 5-1 defeat to Arsenal at Selhurst Park. Despite an early equalizer from Ismaila Sarr, Palace were overwhelmed by Arsenal’s attacking firepower. Injuries to key players like Eberechi Eze have further compounded their struggles, making this trip to the Vitality Stadium a daunting task.
Crystal Palace Team News
Crystal Palace welcome back Daniel Munoz from suspension, but injuries to key players like Adam Wharton and doubts over Eberechi Eze’s fitness remain a concern.
Predicted XI (3-4-2-1):
Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Guehi; Clyne, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell; Sarr, Eze; Mateta
Unavailable: Wharton, Franca, Umeh-Chibueze (all injured)
Questionable: Holding, Riad, Eze (injured)
Bournemouth vs Crystal Palace Prediction
Bournemouth’s form and home advantage make them the favorites in this encounter. With their attacking style and Crystal Palace’s inconsistency, the Cherries are well-positioned to secure a positive result. Palace’s injury woes and lack of cohesion further tilt the scales in Bournemouth’s favor.
Prediction: Bournemouth to win or draw