Build up to the match
The Premier League’s first fixture on offer for Matchweek 3 features a true David vs Goliath scenario as underdogs AFC Bournemouth take on the tycoon-backed Manchester City. It is well worth noting that the Citizens are undefeated against the Cherries in their last five fixtures, with the blue giants of Manchester winning their last four matches against Eddie Howe’s men. Can Bournemouth finally find victory against the Blues?
Match Information
Kickoff: Saturday, 26 August 2017, 12:30PM England time
Venue: Vitality Stadium
Team News
Bournemouth will be without the services of their forwards Junior Stanislas and Callum Wilson, as well as young midfielder Emerson Hyndman.
Manchester City are still missing their midfield generals Benjamin Mendy and Ilkay Gundogan, while defender Kyle Walker is out as he is serving a red-card match ban.
Form
Bournemouth
W-L-L-D-W (in all competitions)
While Bournemouth did well to defeat lower-tier side Birmingham during midweek in their League Cup tie, it must be understood that the Cherries are yet to notch a win in the Premier League, suffering defeats against equals West Brom and Watford in first two games of the season. Indeed, Howe’s charges must dig deep if they are to find a result against Manchester City and finally kick-start their season.
Manchester City
D-L-W-W-W (in all competitions)
Manchester City must make sure they don’t become complacent coming into this match with Bournemouth. Indeed, while they won their opening fixture against newly-promoted Brighton, they drew against Everton last week. Pep Guardiola’s men must find their form and consistency if they are to ensure they will be in the thick of the pack chasing the Premier League title, lest they repeat last season’s disappointments.
Trivia and Stats
Manchester City have scored at least two goals in eight of their last nine away matches.
Manchester City have kept a clean sheet in their last three outings against Bournemouth.
City’s Raheem Sterling has already scored five Premier League goals against Bournemouth, more than any other player.
Blues striker Sergio Aguero has already scored in seven successive away matches in the league.
Match Prediction
This match will be a truly difficult challenge for Bournemouth, one that they may well find too hard to overcome. Expect City to make this game a show of strength as Guardiola’s men aim to bulldoze over the lowly Cherries.
Bournemouth 0-3 Manchester City