Bournemouth aims to break their seven-match winless streak in the Premier League as they go head-to-head with Burnley at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, December 20. After a strong start to the season, where they briefly occupied second place in the league, Bournemouth’s performances have faltered significantly, leaving them positioned at 13th.
The team enjoyed a thrilling draw against Manchester United, where they rallied from a precarious position at Old Trafford. Despite trailing 4-3 late in the game, a late equalizer from Eli Junior Kroupi secured a point for the Cherries. This match has infused some optimism into Andoni Iraola’s squad as they prepare to face a struggling Burnley side.
Historically, Bournemouth has a positive record against Burnley, having completed a league double over them in the previous campaign. This statistic provides a glimmer of hope as they seek to end this recent barren spell.
Burnley, on the other hand, is struggling desperately, currently situated in 19th place and facing the threat of relegation after suffering seven consecutive defeats. Their recent performances have prompted criticism, including a chant directed at manager Scott Parker after a narrow loss to Fulham last week.
In terms of team news, Bournemouth may benefit from the absence of several players heading to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), particularly their key player Antoine Semenyo, who will be available as Ghana did not qualify. However, they will be without some players due to injury, including Tyler Adams, who is also a doubt.
Burnley faces a more challenging situation with multiple players called up for international duty. Key players like Axel Tuanzebe, Lyle Foster, and Hannibal Mejbri will miss the trip, with Mejbri also serving a significant suspension. The lack of depth in their squad, coupled with injuries to key defenders, raises concerns about their defense as they prepare to face Bournemouth.
Most analysts expect Bournemouth to seize this opportunity and come out on top, predicting a scoreline of 2-0 in their favor as they seek to stabilize their season against a struggling Burnley side. The match not only serves as a chance for Bournemouth to reclaim their form but also presents an essential moment for Burnley to turn their season around.