Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
What links both clubs is their recent victories over the once-invincible Manchester City. But who will prevail in their head-to-head encounter?
Bournemouth
One of the reasons for Bournemouth's win was not only the champions' poor form but also because the 10th-round game (2:1) took place at Bournemouth. At the Vitality Stadium, they are noticeably more formidable. The hosts not only defeated Manchester City but also Arsenal (2:0), although not without a favourable referee's decision. In this league campaign, they have only lost at home to Chelsea (0:1), and in their last 10 home games, Bournemouth have won six times, drawn twice, and lost twice. Among those victories was a 3:0 success against Brighton.
Brighton
Brighton, meanwhile, beat Manchester City in the last round (2:1), but that was also on home turf. Everyone who has defeated Manchester City did so on their own ground. Try doing the same at the Etihad. Away from home, Brighton have managed two wins out of five—against a lacklustre Everton at the start of the season (3:0) and against Newcastle United (1:0), who created twice as many chances (2.02-1.12 in xG and 21-10 in shots).
Bournemouth vs Brighton Prediction
Both teams are heavily reliant on their home support. Bournemouth have won four of the last five home encounters against Brighton, losing only once and never drawing. We'll suggest a reliable bet with a handicap of 0.
