Bournemouth will aim to continue their winning momentum from their first Premier League victory as they face Liverpool in the EFL Cup fourth-round clash at Vitality Stadium on Wednesday.
Match Preview
The Cherries secured a 2-0 win against Stoke City in their previous knockout match, while Liverpool came from behind to defeat Leicester City 3-1.
In their last Premier League game, Bournemouth showed resilience against Burnley and escaped the relegation zone with a late victory.
Head coach Andoni Iraola will be hoping to build on this success and secure an upset against Liverpool in the EFL Cup.
Having already achieved victories over Championship teams Swansea City and Stoke City in the previous rounds, Bournemouth aims to reach further this year and make it to the quarter-finals.
However, they face a tough challenge with Manchester City awaiting them in the Premier League shortly after this cup tie.
Liverpool, on the other hand, showcased their fighting spirit in their recent games.
They defeated Nottingham Forest with goals from Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Mohamed Salah.
While the football world was saddened by the news of Luis Diaz’s parents’ kidnap, Liverpool paid tribute to the Colombian attacker during the match.
Jurgen Klopp’s side has been consistent in scoring goals and currently holds the fourth position in the Premier League.
Both teams have had their share of success in the EFL Cup. Bournemouth reached the quarter-finals in the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons, while Liverpool won the title in 2022.
Liverpool is determined to win the EFL Cup title again and has been in good form, scoring at least two goals in their last five matches.
In their previous encounter in August, Liverpool overcame an early setback to defeat Bournemouth 3-1.
However, Bournemouth’s last match at Vitality Stadium against Liverpool saw them secure a memorable victory, avenging their 9-0 loss earlier that season.
Team News:
Bournemouth may be without right-back Max Aarons, who was substituted in their previous game.
They will also miss Tyler Adams, Emiliano Marcondes, Ryan Fredericks, and first-choice goalkeeper Neto due to injuries.
Lewis Cook is suspended, and Marcos Senesi is uncertain. Chris Mepham could step up in defense once again.
Liverpool will likely be without Luis Diaz due to the ongoing situation with his parents’ kidnapping.
Andrew Robertson, Stefan Bajcetic, Thiago Alcantara, and Ben Doak are unavailable due to injuries.
Curtis Jones returns from suspension, while Luke Chambers, Caoimhin Kelleher, Jarell Quansah, and Cody Gakpo may feature.
Possible Lineups:
Bournemouth:
- Radu;
- Smith, Zabarnyi, Mepham, Kerkez;
- Rothwell, Billing;
- Ouattara, Semenyo, Sinisterra;
- Solanke
Liverpool:
- Kelleher;
- Gomez, Quansah, Matip, Chambers;
- Elliott, Endo, Jones;
- Salah, Nunez, Gakpo
Prediction:
Bournemouth’s recent win has boosted their confidence, and they will aim to challenge Liverpool.
However, Liverpool’s attacking prowess and depth should prove too much for the Cherries.
- We predict a 3-1 victory for Liverpool.