Arsenal vs Bournemouth
Bournemouth have never managed to take a point off Arsenal on their own turf but this weekend Premier League’s encounter could be the ideal opportunity to put this right.
For, as far as this SBOTOP observer is concerned, this is a game which is of such little consequence for the hosts, the Cherries need to take their moment.
If they can produce some Premier League 2025 highlights, it could yet give them a glimmer of hope in the race to qualify for Europe for the first time in the club’s history.
Talking Points
On the flip side, Andoni Iraola’s men do seem to be losing some momentum at a crucial time. They were on a 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions between November and January and were fifth in the Premier League in February.
But that feels like some time ago. They have only one victory since a 3-1 defeat of now relegated Southampton in mid-February which means they have won once in 90 minutes in their past 11 games.
They have received a welcome boost in recent days with the news that Evanilson is available after a three-match ban, following his red card against Manchester United last Sunday, was overturned.
The Brazilian striker was dismissed in the 70th minute of the contest following a recommendation by the video assistant referee, John Brooks, for Peter Bankes to review the initial yellow card.
Bournemouth’s club-record signing had also been set to miss a home game against Aston Villa and a trip to Manchester City, but the suspension has been lifted after a successful claim of wrongful dismissal.
United’s last gasp equaliser against 10 men hasn’t helped them, of course, and, with four games to go, the south coast club sit 10th in the table – a point adrift of both Fulham and Brighton as they chase European qualification.
That makes a win imperative in North London and, in truth, league football is hardly on the agenda for Arsenal who have eyes on their forthcoming Champions League semi-final second leg.
The North Londoners were beaten 1-0 by Paris St-Germain in the Emirates Stadium first leg when they had good chances but could not respond to conceding a fourth minute opener.
The absence of suspended midfielder Thomas Partey caused manager Mikel Arteta to shuffle his team around in that game and saw Mikel Merino drop into his natural midfield position and Declan Rice move deeper to a number six role.
Partey will probably figure against Bournemouth but expect Arteta to limit the minutes of key men ahead of their European assignment.
Assuming they bow out in Paris next week, there will soon be pressure on Arteta to finally deliver a trophy next season – five years after his maiden and to date, only major triumph – the 2020 FA Cup.
And with their minds firmly occupied elsewhere, this could be Bournemouth’s moment to create a bit of history.
History
Given the difference in size between these two clubs, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that Arsenal have won the vast majority of their contests (13 successes, two draws, two defeats).
That includes five of their first ever six contests, the inaugural clash being in the League Cup third round in 1987 when the then holders ran out 3-0 winners at Highbury, thanks to goals from Kevin Richardson, Alan Smith and Michael Thomas (penalty).
All their other meetings have come over the past decade since the Cherries were promoted to the top flight.
The corresponding game last term was a 3-0 win for the Gunners as Bukayo Saka (penalty), Leandro Trossard and Rice scored the goals.
This season on the south coast though was a very different matter as Bournemouth benefited from a highly controversial decision to send off Arsenal defender William Saliba after half an hour.
Ultimately, the Cherries made the extra man count with two quick goals in the final quarter through Ryan Christie and Justin Kluivert (penalty).
Betting Tip
Looking at our Premier League 2025 betting odds, Arsenal are odds on with both 1X2 @ 2.09 and Asian Handicap -0.75 @ 2.40 – and the latter bet has really tempted me.
Then again, Bournemouth have very attractive odds with 1X2 paying out @ 3.17 and Asian Handicap +0.25 @ 2.06.
Another 3-0 success will earn you a tidy pay day @ 21.00 with Correct Score, while a first ever goalless draw between the sides can be backed @ 11.50.
I think there will be a handful of goals, but no more, although I have assessed all the options including Over 2.75 @ 2.13, Under 2.25 @ 2.33, Total Goal 0-1 @ 3.26, 2-3 @ 1.99 and 4-6 @ 3.21.
With the home team’s gaze firmly fixed on Europe and Bournemouth approaching last chance salon for European qualification, I suspect this has got honours even written all over it and my *** tip is 1X2 Draw @ 3.22.
A SHORT EXPLANATION ON HOW OUR (⭐) BETS ARE WORTH:
⭐⭐⭐= €20 (HIGHLY CONFIDENT)
⭐⭐= €10 (CONFIDENT)
⭐= €5 (SOMEWHAT CONFIDENT)
Disclaimer: Odds are correct at time of publish.
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