With the Premier League season resuming on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, everyone's focus will shift to the Vitality Stadium when AFC Bournemouth play Ipswich Town. The fixture has been scheduled for a 20:45 kick-off, and it has high stakes for both teams as they move about their respective competitions. In this in-depth preview, we'll be analyzing the head-to-head record, recent form, team news, expected lineups, and make a prediction to provide an in-depth analysis of the match.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Previous Bournemouth and Ipswich Town encounters have been highly competitive. Ipswich Town holds a slim advantage in 38 encounters across all competitions, having won 14 times to Bournemouth's 11, with 13 draws. It is remarkable that the last four encounters between the two sides have all resulted in draws, an indication of how competitive this match is.
Recent Form
AFC Bournemouth
Bournemouth heads into this match with an inconsistent record. Following the defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup Quarter-Finals, the Cherries have been consistent in the league. They thrashed Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 convincingly, with Dean Huijsen's goal in the first half proving to be the decider. Bournemouth sits ninth on the league table and wants to keep this up to climb higher on the rankings.
Ipswich Town
Ipswich Town, though, has been finding it hard to find form this term. With only three wins under their belt, the Tractor Boys are a precarious position near the drop zone. Their 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace recently highlighted ongoing attacking problems, as they failed to score for the second consecutive match. Manager Kieran McKenna will be eager to lift his side to change this.
Team News
AFC Bournemouth
There are a couple of injury concerns for Bournemouth to deal with ahead of this game. Defender Julian Araujo and midfielder Alex Scott are both ruled out through hamstring and meniscus injuries, respectively. Center-back Marcos Senesi is also in doubt, and manager Andoni Iraola may be tempted to select defensive pairing Illia Zabarnyi and Dean Huijsen. On the other hand, Luis Sinisterra could return to the matchday squad but will likely be on the bench in light of Antoine Semenyo, Justin Kluivert, Marcus Tavernier, and Evanilson's performances.
Ipswich Town
Ipswich will miss defender Axel Tuanzebe, who has been recuperating from a hamstring injury.
Also out is goalkeeper Cieran Slicker, with a mid-month comeback in prospect. The attacking lineup is also decimated by Chiedozie Ogbene's absence from the team with an Achilles tendon injury, plus George Hirst's knee ailment, which will sideline him until mid-way through the month. Therefore, Wes Burns, Omari Hutchinson, and Jack Clarke are supposed to offer depth to striker Liam Delap within the attacking zone. ## Predicted Lineups ### AFC Bournemouth (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Neto
- Defenders: Adam Smith, Illia Zabarnyi, Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez
- Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Ryan Christie
- Attacking Midfielders: Antoine Semenyo, Justin Kluivert, Marcus Tavernier
- Forward: Evanilson
Ipswich Town (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Arijanet Muric
- Defenders: Ben Johnson, Dara O'Shea, Jacob Greaves, Leif Davis
- Midfielders: Sam Morsy, Jens Cajuste
- Attacking Midfielders: Wes Burns, Conor Chaplin, Omari Hutchinson
- Forward: Liam Delap
Match Prediction
Given the respective form and depth of squad at the moment for both sides, Bournemouth seem to have the advantage in this game. Their recent defensive solidity and attacking strength, combined with Ipswich's failure to score in front of goal, make the Cherries good candidates to emerge victorious. A 2-1 victory for Bournemouth seems a likely possibility, with Evanilson and Justin Kluivert most likely to play a pivotal role in the attacking third.
Betting Tips
For those who are interested in the betting side of the game:
- Result: Bournemouth to win
- Total Goals: Over 2.5 goals
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
These options are based on Bournemouth's better form and Ipswich's defensive frailties. As with everything, it's important to gamble responsibly.
How to Watch
Live coverage of Bournemouth vs. Ipswich Town can be accessed by supporters through various broadcasting services, as determined by region. Local schedules should be referred to for accurate broadcast times. Live commentaries and reports will also be available on top sports news sites and the radio.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this Premier League game will be an interesting match to watch. As Bournemouth seek to continue their current performance to ascend the table, Ipswich Town will be keen to secure points in order to keep themselves in the league. Football enthusiasts should be in for a thrilling game at the Vitality Stadium.
