AFC Bournemouth (6-4-7) vs. Fulham (6-3-9)
AFC Bournemouth vs. Fulham 12/26/23 – In an intriguing mid-table English Premier League clash, AFC Bournemouth faces off against Fulham at the Vitality Stadium on December 26, 2023. With both teams locked in similar positions – Bournemouth at 6 wins, 4 draws, and 7 losses, and Fulham at 6 wins, 3 draws, and 9 losses – this fixture is crucial for their league aspirations. This encounter is drawing significant interest, with handicappers’ picks and tips pointing towards a closely fought contest.
Bournemouth’s offense this season has shown glimpses of brilliance, with Dominic Solanke spearheading their attack with eight goals from 16 starts he scored this season. Alongside him have come Antoine Semenyo and Philip Billing whose contributions added diversity and depth. Their challenge will be breaking through Fulham’s resilient yet vulnerable defense.
Fulham boasts an effective attacking lineup led by Raul Jimenez and Willian. Jimenez has scored four goals while Willian’s experience and skill have created scoring opportunities. Bobby De Cordova-Reid adds another dimension to Fulham’s attack; their offensive prowess will test Bournemouth’s relatively solid yet not impregnable defence system.
AFC Bournemouth vs. Fulham 12/26/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at 10:00 AM ET |
| Where: | Vitality Stadium |
| TV: | USA |
| Stream: | – |
Neto GK vs. Bernd Leno GK
Bournemouth’s goalkeeper, Neto has posted middling numbers this EPL campaign. With 54 saves, he ranks 13th among shot-stoppers in the English top flight. However, he has also conceded 22 goals which is the 6th most in the league. His save percentage of 71.1% puts him right around the median for starters. At home, he has struggled even more allowing an average of 2 goals per contest. His difficulties in net have contributed to Bournemouth’s poor defensive record this season.
In the opposite net, Fulham’s goalkeeper, Bernd Leno stats appear slightly better on paper. His 74 saves place him 4th overall in the EPL in that category. He has let in 26 goals for a more respectable 74% save rate. Playing on the road, he has been less tested averaging just 2 saves per match away from home. But he has allowed 11 goals in Fulham’s 9 away fixtures. While serviceable, he doesn’t particularly stand out compared to other EPL keepers. Neither keeper seems to give his side a major edge on Tuesday.
Bournemouth’s offense will be hoping to take advantage of Fulham’s vulnerabilities in goal. But if Fulham can put together some of their best attacking sequences, they may be able to exploit questions marks in the Bournemouth defense as well. This projects to be an evenly played contest between the posts.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: Bournemouth +125, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting odds slightly favor Bournemouth, reflecting their home advantage and recent form. The spread indicates a close match, with a slight edge to Bournemouth. The total odds suggest expectations of a game with a moderate number of goals, considering both teams’ recent scoring and conceding records.
AFC Bournemouth Betting Trends
Bournemouth has struggled to string wins together, going just 1-2 straight up in their last 5 matches. However, they have fared better against the spread at 3-2. Unders have also hit in 3 of the club’s previous 5 contests. For the season, Bournemouth is an impressive 6-3 against the number when playing in front of their home crowd at Vitality Stadium.
Fulham Betting Trends
Fulham’s matches have been higher scoring affairs recently, going over the projected total in 5 of the team’s last 9 games at Craven Cottage. On the road, Fulham is 5-4 against the spread and averaging 1.5 goals over their previous 4 away fixtures.
AFC Bournemouth vs. Fulham 12/26/23 Betting Picks
This matchup presents a challenging scenario for bettors. With both teams showing similar forms and strengths, the game could swing either way. Bournemouth’s home advantage and slightly more consistent performance give them a narrow edge.
In terms of no-cost expert EPL predictions, a cautious approach would be advisable. Betting on a close game with the potential for over 2.5 goals seems a reasonable choice. Prop bets on players like Solanke or Jiménez to score could offer additional value.
Free Pick and Prediction: AFC Bournemouth 2, Fulham 1.