Bournemouth could benefit from the Premier League potentially gaining eight European qualification spots, offering a boost to their hopes despite a recent slump. The Cherries had been in the top-four race, but a six-match winless run in the league has stalled their momentum.
Returning to the Vitality Stadium doesn’t guarantee a turnaround either, as they’ve lost their last four home league matches. Another defeat would see them match an unwanted club record – only twice in their history have they lost five consecutive home league games, and both times were in the third tier.
However, Bournemouth can take some comfort in their recent form against Fulham at home, having won the last two league meetings on their own turf. They’ve also lost just one of their last five Premier League matches played on a Monday, winning two of the last three of those at home.
Fulham arrive in better shape than their hosts, though they’ve struggled with consistency. They’ve alternated between wins and losses over their last seven Premier League games (four wins, three defeats). After a thrilling 3-2 victory over league leaders Liverpool last weekend, they’ll be aiming to break that pattern and secure back-to-back wins in the league for just the fourth time this season.
Marco Silva’s side has lost their last two away games, and their overall away form has shown an unusual trend. The Cottagers have won three away league matches against teams above them in the table before this round, and three against teams below — including Bournemouth, who currently sit three points behind them. This adds a layer of uncertainty heading into the match.
Two Brazilian strikers could be worth keeping an eye on. Bournemouth’s Evanilson has scored nine league goals this season, and if he scores again, he’ll join a select group only three Brazilians have scored 10 or more goals in their debut Premier League season. Meanwhile, Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz could also make history by becoming just the second Brazilian after Richarlison to score in four consecutive Premier League matches.
Fulham have had a league-high nine away games this season level at half-time before this round — something to consider as the teams prepare for what could be a tightly contested first half.
