Bournemouth played a key role in helping Arsenal lift the Premier League title after holding Manchester City to a 1-1 draw. For the Cherries themselves the result proved costly as their hopes of sneaking into the Champions League took a serious hit. Sitting three points behind Liverpool with one game left and a worse goal difference, they now face a must-win situation against Nottingham Forest where anything less than a thumping victory could see them miss out. On the brighter side the south coast side have secured European football for the first time in their history and head into the final match on an impressive 18-game unbeaten run across all competitions.
Team Form
- Bournemouth have not tasted defeat since losing 3-2 to Arsenal back in early January and currently boast the longest unbeaten sequence in the top flight.
- Nottingham Forest endured a turbulent campaign that saw four different managers come and go yet still managed to avoid relegation with a few games to spare.
- Recent results for Forest have been disappointing as they slumped to narrow defeats against Manchester United and a heavy 4-0 loss to Aston Villa while already in relaxed mode.
The visitors will be desperate to sign off on a high and carry that positive momentum into their maiden European adventure next term. Meanwhile Liverpool only need a draw at home to Brentford to wrap up their own top-four spot so Bournemouth know they must take all three points and improve their goal difference dramatically if they harbour any lingering top-four dreams.
Tactical Analysis
- Bournemouth possess a well-drilled defensive unit that has kept things tight in recent outings and will look to exploit Forest’s leaky backline with quick transitions.
- Forest have shown vulnerability to set-pieces and high-pressing attacks which Bournemouth are likely to target from the first whistle.
- Key strengths for the Cherries include their midfield control and clinical finishing while Forest’s main weakness lies in concentration levels during the closing stages of matches.
With both sides largely settled in terms of personnel the game promises an open contest where Bournemouth’s superior organisation should give them the edge on the road.
Betting Proposal
Given Bournemouth’s remarkable unbeaten streak and Forest’s tendency to switch off late in the season, backing the visitors to avoid defeat looks the most sensible route. The handicap 2 (0) at odds of 1.57 offers solid value for those expecting the Cherries to return from the City Ground with at least a point.
Overall this fixture serves as the perfect send-off for Bournemouth as they prepare for their first-ever European campaign and a well-earned summer break on a winning note.
