Bournemouth vs Leicester preview: Can the Cherries reach the top half?

The 2024/25 Premier League season has been marked by progress and promise for Bournemouth under Andoni Iraola. However, a 3-1 defeat to Manchester City in midweek officially ended their faint hopes of a top-eight finish. Despite this disappointment, a top-half finish remains a possibility, with tenth place still within reach depending on results.

To have any chance of finishing in the top 10, Bournemouth must first address their recent poor home performance, which has seen them win just once in their last seven league games at the Vitality Stadium (D1 L5). With this being their last chance to cap off a respectable season with a home win on a positive note, the stakes aren’t just a league place; they’re also about ending the summer with pride and optimism.

History is on their side against Leicester

Fortunately for the Cherries, history shows they picked the right opponent to close out the season. Bournemouth have won four of their last five Premier League home games against Leicester City (D1), giving them a clear advantage going into this fixture on the south coast. However, caution is advised: Bournemouth lost the first leg 1-0 earlier this season, and the Red Devils have yet to keep a clean sheet against any of the three relegated teams in the Championship.

This record suggests that Bournemouth tends to make life more difficult than necessary against teams already qualified for the Championship. With only the final position at stake, the pressure may be less, but Iraola will expect his players to maintain their professionalism and deliver one last home performance that the fans can celebrate.

Leicester’s late resurgence

Leicester City’s return to the Championship has been confirmed for some time, but the Foxes have shown courage at the end of the season. They are unbeaten in their last three league games (W2 D1), marking their longest unbeaten run since the start of a tumultuous Premier League season.

Both victories came at the King Power Stadium, against the other two teams that will join them in the second tier: Ipswich Town and Southampton. They will now aim for a slam against the other relegated teams by securing a rare away victory against Bournemouth. Ironically, the Cherries are also the highest-ranked team Leicester have beaten this season, which offers a glimmer of hope for fans hoping their team loses on a high note.

Grim Away’s record offers little encouragement

Despite their recent fine form, Leicester’s away record is a stark testament to their struggles. They have won just one of their last 14 away league games (D3 L10) and have not beaten a team ranked 16th or higher in the Premier League this season away from home (D3 L12).

These figures underscore the enormous challenge Leicester face if they are to end the season with a rare away win. Moreover, with this match set to be Ruud van Nistelrooy’s last in charge before a summer shake-up, stability and motivation within the squad are limited, aside from individual pride and potential opportunities elsewhere.

Players to Watch

In a game that will see several players say goodbye, all eyes will be on Dean Huijsen, who is expected to make his final appearance for Bournemouth before a summer move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The central defender has had a productive season, particularly in front of goal, with three headed goals, all in victories. Expect him to be a threat from set pieces and finish in style.

Leicester also has a loanee preparing to return to his parent club, with Facundo Buonanotte expected to return to Brighton after Sunday’s game.

The young Argentinian impressed during his short stint, notably scoring the winning goal in the return leg against Bournemouth. Since then, all three of his Premier League goals have come away from home, and he will be eager to make one final statement before leaving.

Tactical Overview

Bournemouth is expected to adopt its usual attacking philosophy under Iraola, with high pressing and quick transitions. Given Leicester’s defensive weaknesses – they have conceded at least two goals in 15 of their 18 away league games – the Cherries could have plenty of scoring opportunities, particularly down the wings and from set pieces.

Leicester may look to stay compact and play on the counterattack, knowing that Bournemouth often leaves space behind them when pressing high up the pitch. However, their lack of defensive resilience and inability to maintain an advantage this season leaves them vulnerable, especially if the game remains tight late on.

Hot Stats

Leicester have conceded two or more goals in 15 of their 18 away league games this season, a staggering statistic that suggests Bournemouth’s attack will have opportunities to exploit defensive weaknesses.

Prediction

Bournemouth will be keen to end the season with a win and please their fans. Given their excellent home record against Leicester and the visitors’ poor away performance, the hosts should have the advantage.

Prediction: Bournemouth 2-1 Leicester City